This fund is managed by the South Downs National Park Trust in partnership with the South Downs National Park Authority and will allocate grants of up to £10,000 through its grant panel.
Partnerships and constituted not-for-profit organisations (which include social enterprises, community interest companies and voluntary organisations) and for-profit organisations (projects cannot be for financial gain to the business) can apply for funding if their project contributes to the South Downs National Park Partnership Management Plan.
Grants are available for up to 50% of the project cost from £500 to a maximum of £10,000. Please note that the criteria of the fund are regularly reviewed and may change without notice. South Downs National Park Trust is not obliged to consider applications under criteria which were in place when an enquiry or expression of interest was made. The Sustainable Communities Fund will allocate large grants of £2,001-£10,000 at its panel meetings which take place twice every year (budget depending). Small grants of up to £2,000 can also be applied for up to twice a year (budget depending).
Need inspiration?
Have a look at some of our recently funded projects – which feature a selection of previous beneficiaries.
Applications
Applications for funding are reviewed twice a year, typically in April and October. The next application deadline is 2 March, 2026.
We strongly encourage all prospective applicants to connect with South Downs National Park staff before applying. To get started, please read the Information Sheet and submit an enquiry form to the Grants Officer . Once your enquiry is received, you’ll receive feedback. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you’ll be invited to complete a full application form.
Please note: If you contact us close to the deadline, we may not have sufficient time to respond before the application window closes. To ensure you receive timely support, contact us as early as possible.
The Sustainable Communities Fund Endowment has been established through the generosity of our founding donors:
- Oliver Haarmann
- Badr Jafar and Razan Al Mubarak
- Simon and Harriett Patterson
- Franck R Petitgas
- James and Biance Pitt
- Charles and Jans Rolls
- Gordon and Jennifer Singer
- James Tuttiett Charitable Trust
Visit the Grants page to discover other funding available from South Downs Trust.