FAQs

The Community Start Up & Support Fund provides small grants of up to £750 to support community-led projects and activities that make a positive difference to local residents. 

The fund is designed to help individuals, community groups and organisations develop new activities, respond to local needs, bring people together and strengthen community connections.   

Projects should benefit residents living within the programme's priority neighbourhoods: 

• Kingshurst
• Fordbridge
• Smith's Wood
• Chelmsley Wood West
• Solihull Lodge

We particularly welcome projects that: 

• Respond to an identified local need
• Increase opportunities for community participation and volunteering
• Bring people together and reduce social isolation
• Support people of different ages and backgrounds
• Create new community activities and opportunities
• Address gaps in existing provision and strengthen community connections

Examples may include:

• Community activities and events
• Volunteering initiatives
• Wellbeing projects
• Creative and cultural activities
• Activities that increase community involvement and participation

Applications are welcomed from:

• Community groups
• Resident groups
• Charities and voluntary organisations
• Not-for-profit organisations
• Informal groups and individuals working with and supported by the Community Development Team   

Individuals and informal groups may be eligible where they are working with the Community Development Team to develop a community project.

In some circumstances, funding may be administered through an appropriate partner organisation acting on behalf of the applicant.

• Grants of up to £750 
• Total programme funding available: £10,000
• Applications considered on a rolling basis
• Monthly assessment panels
• Funding allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility and available budget  

Funding can be used for a range of community-led activities and projects. Examples include: 

• Venue hire
• Insurance
• Equipment
• Refreshments
• Volunteer expenses
• Materials and resources
• Other activities that demonstrate community benefit and align with the aims of the fund

The examples above are intended as a guide and are not exhaustive.  

The process is simple: 

1. Contact the Community Development Team to discuss your idea. 
2. Submit an Expression of Interest. 
3. Complete a short application form. 
4. Applications are reviewed by a monthly Grants Panel. 
5. Successful applicants will be notified following the panel meeting.

The Community Development Team can help you develop your idea and support you through the application process. Email: cdt@solihull.gov.uk.