Football Foundation - Facilities Grants

Objectives of Fund

The funding is intended to enhance the grassroots football experience by supporting projects ranging from the purchase of goalposts to improving changing pavilions. The Football Foundation provides comprehensive funding to improve football facilities for all participants.

Value Notes

The grant size available depends on the type of investment that the club is applying for. Football Foundation support is generally of up to a maximum of £25,000.

Match Funding Restrictions

Match funding is required. The percentage depends on the type of investment that the club is applying for.

Who Can Apply

Applications are accepted from football clubs and community sports organisations. This includes:

• Not-for-profit football clubs or voluntary groups.
• Local Authorities.
• County Football Associations.
• Professional Club Community Organisations.
• Educational establishments providing facilities for the community.
• Registered charities.
• Not-for-profit companies.
• Community Interest Companies (CICs) or other social enterprises.
• Companies limited by guarantee.

Location

England

Restrictions

The following are not eligible for funding:

• Individuals or sole traders.
• National governing bodies.
• Commercial/for-profit entities.
• Clubs within the Premier League, Football League, National League System (Step 1-6), Women's Football Pyramid (Tier 1-4) or the Welsh Premier League.
• Educational establishments providing facilities solely for their students.
• Facilities that are not available for community use.
• Kit and equipment.
• Projects intended for private gain.
• Projects outside England.
• Retrospective funding (for works that have already started or been completed).
• Routine maintenance and repairs resulting from wear and tear and not part of a grass pitch improvement programme.
• Facility hire.

Eligible Expenditure

The funding is intended for smaller capital projects and the maintenance/improvement of facilities.

The following can be funded:

• Goalposts.
• Storage containers.
• Portable floodlights.
• Minor works to changing rooms and club house refurbishment.
• 3G pitch maintenance machinery and equipment.
• Improvements to grass pitch playing surfaces.
  
• Fencing.
• Small-sided facility improvement.

How To Apply

Applications can be made at any time.

The application process can be found on the Football Foundation website. Organisations must create an account for the Foundation's grants portal and can then access guidance notes and the online application form.

Contact the Football Foundation for further information.