The National Grid Electricity Distribution has a £250,000 grant fund aimed at supporting groups that deliver focussed programmes to develop the practical skills and improve employability levels for people furthest from the job market ie those not in education, employment or training (commonly referred to by the acronym 'NEETs').
The Community Matters Fund is committed to supporting key groups that would most benefit from assistance, including
- young people aged 16-25 who are not in full time education
- people from ethnic minority backgrounds
- those with health conditions or disabilities
- armed forces veterans
- ex-offenders, and
- those returning to work after a long-term absence.
Projects should aim to achieve one or more of the following:
- offer placements, work experience, and professional accreditation programmes
- develop key professional skills to help people into skilled trade
- boost employability
- support people returning to work after a long-term absence
Registered charities and not-for-profit companies, including Community Interest Companies (CICs), in the East and West Midlands, South-West England, and South Wales may apply for a grant of up to £5,000.
Unregistered community organisations can apply for up to £2,000.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Thursday 23 April 2026.
Further information, including an Eligibility Quiz and details about how to apply, is available on the National Grid website