The Upton Pyne and Cowley Parish Council Small Community Grants program offers one-off grants of up to £500 to support community-led initiatives in the parish. Eligible applicants include properly constituted not-for-profit organisations, voluntary and community sector groups and individuals living or based in the Upton Pyne and Cowley area.

Projects funded by the Small Community Grants should align with the parish priorities outlined in the Parish Plan. This may include (but is not limited to):

Improving safety - Health and wellbeing of residents - Promoting a greener Parish - Enhancing community life - Providing educational opportunities

Applications should demonstrate community involvement and a commitment to project delivery and maintenance. While the fund is intended to fully support smaller projects, contributions to larger endeavours may be eligible, with applicants encouraged to indicate community engagement and benefit in their proposals. Match-funding of projects by other sources may strengthen applications but is not required. Examples of eligible projects may include:

• Grants for play equipment on community land
• Funds for a street party for a community focussed event
• Training/equipment for volunteers (e.g traffic monitors)
• Community planting of flowerbeds or bee-friendly verges 

Certain project types are ineligible for funding, including those promoting specific politics, faith, or beliefs, ongoing staff salaries, or projects already completed. Projects where the sole or principal benefit goes to individuals or for-profit organizations will not be considered. Examples of ineligible applications may include:

• Individual sponsorship for a charity race or activity
• Improvements or upgrades to individual’s homes
• Business loans or grants
• On-going commitments e.g. equipment maintenance required every year.

Applications are assessed by Councillors on the Community Grants Panel, with decisions typically communicated within 8 weeks of submission. Successful applicants are required to spend the grant within the timescales allowed in the application and must provide feedback, including evidence of expenditure and project outcomes.

Applicants must adhere to the fund's terms and conditions, which include confirming project eligibility, acknowledging Upton Pyne and Cowley Parish Council's support in publicity materials, and conducting project evaluations. Specific details of project evaluations will be provided on a case-by-case basis before grants are awarded. Failure to comply with the terms may result in repayment of grant funds at the council’s discretion.

In rare circumstances larger grants may be available (up to £1500), if the evidence suggests a greater need, or significant match-funding from alternative sources. For more information on the Small Community Grants program and application updates, interested parties are encouraged to contact parishclerk@uptonpyne-pc.gov.uk