Community Leisure Capital Grants Programme

Funding now open – apply from May 2026 

Hastings Borough Council is launching a new Community Leisure Capital Grants Programme, providing funding to support improvements to local leisure, sport and physical activity facilities across the town. 

We are investing £700,000 in grants over two years to help community organisations upgrade and improve spaces that enable people to be active, connect, and thrive. 

What we can and cannot fund

We will fund capital improvements to buildings and spaces, including: 

• Building repairs and refurbishment
• Improvements to sports or activity areas
• Accessibility improvements
• Fixed or permanent equipment.

We will also consider specialist equipment where it is essential to deliver or expand a community leisure activity within a facility. 

Examples may include: 

• mats, flooring or padding required to enable specific activities
• equipment needed to bring an under‑used space into active use
• items that form part of a wider capital improvement project.

We will not normally fund: 

• general or personal sports equipment (e.g. rackets, balls, kits)
• items with a short lifespan or that are easily replaceable
• day‑to‑day running costs.

Who can apply? 

• Community groups
• Charities
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Sports clubs
• Not‑for‑profit organisations
• Organisations managing community buildings or facilities.

How much can you apply for? 

Small Grants: £2,000 – £10,000 

Medium Grants: £10,000 – £75,000 

Major Grants: £75,000 – £150,000 

When is the first round? 

Applications open: May 2026 

Deadline: 11.59pm, Sunday 12 July 2026 

Decisions: September 2026 

Further funding rounds will follow. 

How will applications be assessed? 

We will look at: 

• Community need and local impact
• How the project increases participation
• Deliverability within the timescale
• Value for money
• Alignment with local priorities.

How to apply 

Complete the online application form.

Need support? 

We offer pre‑application advice to help you develop your idea. 

Contact: Strategicprojects@Hastings.gov.uk