Micro Grants

The Micro Grants Programme offers £250 or £500 to support grassroots groups and individuals get started, test new ideas, or grow existing creative projects. 
 
You can choose to apply for either amount depending on the scale and needs of your project. 

What can be funded 

Micro grants can be used for a wide range of costs, including: 

• Materials and equipment 
• Venue hiring or space rental 
• Marketing and promotion 
• Fees and charges 
• Transport or refreshments 
• Costs related to inclusive access (e.g. translation, BSL interpretation) 

We’re open to creative ideas. If you’re unsure whether your costs are eligible, feel free to ask. 

Who should apply 

We welcome applications from: 

• Individuals, informal groups, or small organisations
• People who live or work with communities in Reading
• Those with a passion for creativity and community, whether experienced or just starting out 

You don’t need to be a registered organisation or have previous funding experience. 

What makes a strong application 

We’re looking for projects that: 

• Are community-led or have strong local support
• Encourage collaboration, and inclusion 
• Respond to local needs, interests, or aspirations 
• Can be delivered with modest funding and within a short timeframe 

You don’t need to have everything figured out, we’re happy to support early stage ideas. 

Application process 

The application form is short and straightforward. You’ll be asked to: 

• Describe your idea and what you want to do 
• Explain how it benefits your community 
• Choose whether you’re applying for £250 or £500 
• Provide a simple budget and timeline 

Micro Grant scoring sheet

The deadline for applications is 13 November 2026. We will notify bidders if they were successful before Christmas.

If you need help completing the form, we can offer support just get in touch with bikal.shrestha@reading.gov.uk. 

After you apply 

We’ll review applications based on: 

• Community relevance 
• Innovation and collaboration 
• Feasibility and value for money 

If your application is successful, we’ll ask you to: 

• Confirm your project details 
• Agree to basic safeguarding and good practice principles 
• Share a short reflection or update after your project finishes 

We are looking forward to hearing from you!