Organisations across England can apply for a share of £2.5m in government funding for projects aimed at bringing people from different backgrounds together.
The latest round of the Common Ground Award opened on 14 September, with applications due to close by 12 October.
Individual organisations can apply for between £20,000 and £50,000, while groups applying together can seek grants of up to £250,000.
The scheme, launched in 2025, has supported 211 projects, including Accrington Stanley Football in the Community, which used a grant to buy a minibus.
The organisation said the bus has enabled it to take health, education, sport and wellbeing activities into communities across Hyndburn and East Lancashire.
Applicants for the latest round of funding can apply individually or as part of a consortium. Those that are successful will be told in December, with funding due to be paid in January next year.
Florence Eshamlomi. Minister for Communities, said: ‘Strong communities are built in the conversations between neighbours and in the everyday spaces where people can come together, build trust and feel like they belong.
‘This funding has already done so much to strengthen connections across England, from community cafés and sports clubs to pop-up living rooms that get people talking and forging new ties.
‘I’m looking forward to seeing even more organisations backed by this funding, continuing their excellent work to bridge divides and build more resilient communities across the country.’
Eric Noi, founder of Oldham Boxing & Personal Development Centre, said: ‘As a recipient of the Common Ground Award, we have been empowered to reach and engage more people across our community, breaking down barriers and making access to sport and physical activity genuinely inclusive.
‘At a time when many sports and activities are becoming increasingly commercialised and exclusive, the Common Ground Award has enabled us to champion a different approach, one where opportunity is open to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.’
Image: Nick Fewings/UnSplash
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