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: 

• Art materials and equipment
• Venue hire or space rental
• Marketing and promotion
• Artist or facilitator fees
• 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 in or work with communities in Whitley and Church wards in south 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. We’re especially keen to hear from people who are underrepresented in arts and culture. 

What makes a strong application 

We’re looking for projects that: 

• Are community-led or have strong local support
• Encourage creative expression, 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 
• Creativity 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!