News £140,000 available to good causes in Maidstone
Good causes in Maidstone are being invited to apply for funding through the council’s new Community Grant Scheme.
Maidstone Borough Council has set aside £140,000 for the scheme, with funding being distributed across three application windows with around £46,600 available at each.
The funding aims to support projects that bring people together, strengthen community spirit, improve wellbeing and create opportunities for residents.
The first round is focussed on Town Centre Inclusion and Safety. Local organisations will have until 16 August 2026 to submit applications. Later application rounds will be open to areas beyond the town centre providing they meet with the criteria.
Community groups, charities, local groups, Community Interest Companies and faith groups running projects that are open to all are encouraged to apply.
Funding is available for a wide range of initiatives, including support for vulnerable residents, youth inclusion activities, women's safety projects, community events, cultural activities, digital inclusion programmes and peer support groups.
Organisations can apply for grants of up to £4,999 for one-off projects. Applications that demonstrate strong partnership working, clear community benefits and sustainable outcomes may apply for up to £9,999 and will receive additional weighting during the assessment process.
Councillor David Naghi, Maidstone Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Safety, said: "Our voluntary and community sector supports our residents and creates opportunities for people to connect, thrive and feel part of their community.
"This new grant scheme is about empowering local organisations to deliver projects that make a difference. Whether that's tackling isolation, supporting vulnerable residents, creating safer spaces, bringing communities together or helping more people take part in town centre activities, we want to hear from organisations with ideas that will strengthen Maidstone and improve people's lives.
"We're fortunate to have a fantastic network of community groups delivering in our Town Centre and I look forward to seeing the innovative projects that come forward through this funding."
Applications will be assessed by Maidstone Borough Council, with funding awarded based on the benefits each project will deliver to residents and the wider community.
Successful projects will need to demonstrate how they will improve community cohesion, build resilience, support local people and deliver measurable outcomes.
This is the first of three planned funding rounds taking place during 2026/27, with further themed funding opportunities expected later in the year.
For further information and to apply from 15 July, visit Community Grants and Funding.
Groups requiring information in an alternative format or wishing to discuss their application can contact vcsliaison@maidstone.gov.uk.