This is a new crowdfunding programme to help community led projects get backing for initiatives and activities that help to restore nature in communities.
The fund provides grants of up to £6,000 for voluntary and community organisations delivering practical nature recovery projects. The fund is designed to support “small but mighty” community initiatives that reimagine and bring public green spaces to life.
Project outcomes could include:
- Habitat improvement
- Tree planting
- Biodiversity enhancement
- Community growing
- Wildlife-friendly land management
- Other activities that create lasting environmental benefits and stronger community networks.
The following organisations in the West of England Mayoral area are eligible to apply for funding:
- Public bodies (ie parish councils, schools supporting their wider community)
- Registered charities and Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs)
- Community Interest Company (CICs)
- Constituted or unincorporated community groups
When your project is ready, it will be vetted by Spacehive and the Mayoral Combined Authority to make sure it meets the fund criteria and requirements before going live for crowdfunding.
Funding will remain open until the £25,000 allocation for the fund is fully distributed. Community groups may submit one application at a time through the community crowdfunding programme.
To be considered for funding, projects should:
- Show clear community support before the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority makes its donations. Approaching other funders early (businesses, foundations, trusts) is recommended.
- Demonstrate strong value for money, sustainability, impact and alignment with the fund objectives.
Once your campaign has been funded, you’ll have up to nine months to deliver your project and submit your impact report.
Projects need to apply by the funding round deadline of 13 October 2026. The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority will then review the projects and decide which they are able to support through the West of England Community Nature Fund.