Grants start at £500 and go up to £5,000. We are looking for high quality projects in the Cotswolds that could be delivered relatively quickly if a grant was offered. In order to apply, you will need to complete an online application form and a project workbook (in Excel), whilst making sure you follow the guidance document. These are all available below.
We welcome applications that fit with one of our three themes. Your project might overlap with multiple themes, but please focus your application on just one of the three.
Theme 1: NATURE
Projects focused on protecting and/or enhancing biodiversity and/or landscape features in the Cotswolds.
Previously-funded projects include:
Pond restoration, orchard creation, veteran tree preservation, wildflower establishment, the facilitation of conservation grazing, invasive species management, and single species projects to increase populations e.g. Black Poplar tree and Pearl Bordered Fritillary butterfly.
Theme 2: COMMUNITIES
- Projects that improve access to the countryside in and around the Cotswolds, particularly for underserved communities.
- Projects that help people learn about the special qualities of the Cotswolds and/or skills that help preserve the area’s natural history and cultural heritage.
- Projects that showcase the regions natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of the community.
Previously-funded projects include:
Footpath creation and restoration and associated infrastructure such as steps, benches and bridges, the creation of new walks/ trails (online & hard copy), outdoor learning for young people, teaching groups about food growing, and community/ education shelters, the restoration and interpretation of heritage features.
Theme 3: CLIMATE
Our new Climate theme can include climate mitigation and adaptation projects, and improvements to local green spaces.
Project examples:
- Projects to reduce energy, waste and water use such as community allotments/ local food production, community pantries, repair cafes, library of things, and initiatives to increase walking and cycling.
- Projects to minimise the impacts of climate change such as natural flood management, rain gardens, water butts, living roofs, more shaded areas, and local tree planting.
- Climate projects could be in playgrounds, village greens, and urban green spaces.
We are expecting strong demand for our grants so if you have a project idea you would like to discuss, please contact Rebecca Foster, Grants Coordinator as soon as possible: rebecca.foster@cotswolds-nl.org.uk
Links and downloads
Protecting ancient woodland in the Cotswolds is an important element of our work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the grant for?
The grant is for projects that focus on the nature, the communities, or the climate of the Cotswolds National Landscape – with the goal of conserving and enhancing its natural beauty and/or increasing the public’s understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities.
Where is the Cotswolds National Landscape?
You can download a map of the Cotswolds National Landscape here.
Who can apply?
Non-profit organisations may apply. This includes charities, community interest companies, established community groups, unincorporated associations, parish councils, and town councils. Your organisation must have a governing document and a bank account. Private businesses and individuals are not eligible to apply.
How much funding can I apply for?
You can apply for £500 to £5,000.
Will you fund all the costs of my project?
No, we do not fund 100% of the project costs. You will need to demonstrate contributions from other funding sources.
How do I apply?
Please download and read our accompanying Guidance document which will guide you through the application form and process. When you are ready to apply, please fill out and submit our online application form. Both these documents are found in the Links and Downloads above.
When are the deadlines?
- 18 January 2026
- 12 April 2026
- 31 May 2026
- 4 October 2026
Note that we welcome applications throughout the year. After each deadline we convene a Grants Panel to review the applications on a first-come-first-served basis. If we reach our capacity for review before the deadline, subsequent applications will be carried over to the next Grants Panel meeting. We encourage you to submit applications as early as possible before your preferred deadline.
What happens next?
We will inform all applicants of the outcome of their application; usually within eight weeks of the deadline. During this time, we may contact you for more information. After this, we will email you with our decision, and, if successful, an Awards Letter detailing the conditions of the grant.
If I am successful, when will I receive the grant?
All grant payments are made by invoice. We pay 50% of the grant upfront following your acceptance of the conditions of the grant set out in your Awards Letter, and 50% in arrears on satisfactory completion of your project.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
If you have questions regarding the process or your application, please contact Rebecca Foster, rebecca.foster@cotswolds-nl.org.uk