The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has launched a new £2.5 million Democratic Engagement Fund to support politically neutral, community-based projects in England that help people understand and take part in democracy.

The fund is aimed at civil society organisations working with communities that are less likely to engage with democratic processes, including young people aged 5 to 25, ethnic minority communities, people who are homeless, regular movers, disabled people and people from low socio-economic backgrounds.

Around 80 to 100 projects are expected to receive funding, with most grants worth up to £25,000 and up to £50,000 available in exceptional cases. Eligible applicants include charities, CIOs, CICs, companies limited by guarantee, community benefit societies, co-operatives, faith groups and other VCSE organisations with an annual income of between £50,000 and £1 million. Projects must take place in England and could include democracy workshops, outreach in community settings, mock elections, community forums or practical support to remove barriers to participation. The application window opens on 22 June 2026 and closes on 31 August 2026, with funded activity expected to begin in 2027.

You can read the prospectus and eligibility criteria on the gov.uk website. 

To apply for funding, you must complete the application form.

Please email democraticengagement@communities.gov.uk for any other questions about the grant.