Note: This fund is no longer closing on 17 December 2025 as previously advertised - applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis until further notice.
Grants of between £300 and £20,000 over 2-years are available to a range of UK not-for-profit organisations for projects and activities that connect local people with nature and the environment.
Grants are available for projects that meet one or both of the following aims:
Help people connect with and care for nature in their area, such as:
- Creating community gardens or shared spaces for growing food or plants.
- Rewilding or restoring neglected green areas.
- Running volunteer sessions to care for green spaces, and
- Improving parks or playgrounds to support nature and wildlife.
and/or
Make a positive difference to the environment, such as:
- Running forest schools or outdoor learning activities to help people engage with nature and improve their wellbeing.
- Organising activities in nature for people who do not usually access green spaces.
- Creating or improving community allotment plots with wildlife-friendly features, and
- Offering volunteering in horticulture or community farming and providing outdoor therapy that supports both people and the environment.
Grants can be used for such things as:
- Equipment.
- Help from a nature organisation.
- One-off events.
- Refurbishment projects.
- Running costs and utilities.
- Staffing costs and volunteer expenses.
- Training costs, and
- Transport and training costs
Further information, guidance and an online application form is available on the National Lottery Community Fund website.
Applications may be made at any time and will be assessed on an ongoing basis, with applicants being notified of the outcome of their application usually within 4 months from the date of submission.