The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published details of the 2026-27 Common Ground Award, providing capital funding to voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations working to bring communities together across England.
The fund will support investment in facilities, community spaces and equipment that help organisations build stronger social connections, improve community cohesion and strengthen resilience.
Eligible organisations must work on at least one of the following areas:
- Encouraging social mixing and understanding between people from different communities and backgrounds
- Reducing prejudice, discrimination and hatred
- Resolving conflict and addressing tensions between communities
Individual organisations can apply for between £20,000 and £50,000, with awards of up to £100,000 considered in exceptional cases. Consortium applications can request between £100,000 and £250,000.
Applications will open on 14 September 2026 and close on 12 October 2026.
👉 Read the Common Ground Award prospectus
Applicant webinar – 10 September
MHCLG is holding an applicant webinar from 12:30pm to 1:15pm on Thursday 10 September 2026. The session will cover the award, application process and scoring framework, with an opportunity for potential applicants to submit questions.
Anyone who registers will also receive a link to the recording and updated FAQs if they are unable to attend.