Grants to community and voluntary organisations

Find out how to apply for funding for community activities

Third Sector Investment Programme 

Our Third Sector Investment Programme recognises and builds on the assets of the voluntary and community sector. The programme focuses investment on the changing pattern of needs across the city. It challenges the voluntary sector to show evidence of the impact of its work on its beneficiaries.

The programme is made up of 2 parts.

The Community Catalyst Fund

This is a bi-annual funding programme. Supporting community groups and voluntary organisations to address the key council outcomes:

  • A City To Be Proud Of
  • A Fair and Inclusive City
  • A Healthy City Where People Thrive

Find out about The Community Catalyst Fund.

Thriving Communities Investment Fund 2025 to 2029

The Thriving Communities Investment Fund (TCIF) is Brighton & Hove City Council’s investment programme for the community and voluntary sector. Running from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2029, the fund invests approximately £1.8 million per year (subject to annual Brighton & Hove City Council budget approval) to support organisations that reduce inequalities, tackle poverty, strengthen communities and help residents facing the greatest challenges.

The fund is delivered through 2 funding streams:

The Community Catalyst Fund provides small and medium-sized community groups and voluntary organisations with 2-year grants, supporting core and project costs that contribute to the outcomes of the Council Plan.

Strategic Commissioning - Partnership Funding invests in:

  • city-wide delivery of advice and financial Inclusion, led by Citizens Advice Brighton & Hove (CAB)
  • community power and growth, led by the Trust for Developing Communities (TDC)

These partnerships bring together experienced organisations to provide coordinated support, community engagement, community development, and infrastructure services across the city. Together with a network of local voluntary and community organisations, these partnerships help residents access advice, support and opportunities, while strengthening community capacity and amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities across Brighton & Hove.

By investing in both grassroots organisations and strategic partnerships, the Thriving Communities Investment Fund helps create stronger, fairer and more connected neighbourhoods, ensuring communities across Brighton & Hove have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Other council grants

As well as grants delivered by the council's Communities and Equality team, the council administers a number of other grants to community groups and local residents.

Find out about other Brighton & Hove City Council grants.

External funding

Useful resources for funding applications

The documents and information below will help you when making grant applications to Brighton & Hove City Council and other funders.