Redcar groups and young people can apply for Woodsmith Foundation grants this autumn

Community organisations and talented young people in Redcar and Cleveland have several chances to apply for Woodsmith Foundation funding this autumn, with the first deadline arriving at the end of October.

The programmes range from small awards for everyday equipment to grants for longer community projects. The Foundation’s area of benefit covers the Borough of Redcar and Cleveland, as well as the former Borough of Scarborough and the North York Moors National Park. Each scheme has its own eligibility rules, so applicants should use the detailed guidance rather than assuming one form covers everything.

Small grants for practical needs

Small Grants for Everyday Essentials and Activities offer between £50 and £2,000. They can support kit, equipment, qualifications and activities lasting up to six months. The Foundation has allocated £70,000 to this programme in 2026.

Applications received by the last Monday of each month are taken to a decision panel. The Foundation says applicants should normally receive a decision within two weeks, with six months from the offer letter to spend an award. Groups that cannot complete the online form can contact the grants team for help.

Community grants close on 5 November

Community Grants offer between £2,001 and £10,000 for work that increases opportunity, improves lives or places, brings people together and supports people facing disadvantage. Capital and revenue requests are both eligible, subject to the full guidance, and £120,000 has been allocated to the current round.

The final 2026 deadline is 10am on Thursday 5 November. Organisations may apply only once in a 12-month period. Successful grants between £7,000 and £10,000 also involve a follow-up meeting about the intended outcomes.

Support for talented young people

The Young & Talented fund offers up to £1,500 towards costs that can otherwise prevent a young person from progressing. Examples include competition fees, travel or accommodation, specialist coaching, qualification fees and essential equipment or clothing.

It normally supports applicants up to age 18. Care leavers and young people with special educational needs or disabilities can be eligible up to age 25. Applicants must already be performing at a high level and need an independent reference from a professional expert. Applications for 2026 remain open until the end of October.

A separate route for Dormanstown

People and organisations with a strong connection to Dormanstown can also approach the Dormanstown Seed Fund. It is designed for ideas that increase opportunities, tackle local issues or help residents come together. Applications close at 10am on Thursday 5 November, and community connector Helen Kennedy can help applicants develop an idea before submission.

Check the route before applying

The Foundation also accepts expressions of interest for larger Catalyst Grants, aimed at community-led ideas that create lasting change and tackle disadvantage. It advises anyone seeking less than £10,000 to check the Community Grants guidance first.

Full guidance, contacts and application routes are available on the Woodsmith Foundation application page. General grant enquiries can be sent to grants@woodsmithfoundation.org.uk. Applicants should check the current rules before committing costs, because eligibility and evidence requirements differ between funds.