What is a community development grant?

Funding for projects that improve neighbourhoods and local quality of life, such as housing, public spaces, local economies, services and civic participation.

How do I show community support in a grant?

Include resident involvement in planning, letters of support from local groups and leaders, and evidence such as consultation results or petitions.

What outcomes suit community development projects?

Improved spaces or services, increased participation, new local jobs or businesses, stronger networks and residents reporting improved wellbeing or safety.

Do community development grants require partners?

Many funders prefer or require partnerships. Clear roles and agreements strengthen your application.

Community Development Grant Proposal: How to Write One

A community development grant proposal should show that residents shaped the project, that it addresses a documented local need, and that it will leave the neighbourhood measurably better. Highlight resident involvement, local partnerships, specific evidence from consultations and data, realistic outcomes (improved spaces, services, jobs or participation) and how the work will be sustained by the community after the grant.

What funders look for

Community-led design: residents involved in identifying the need and planning the response.
Local evidence: surveys, consultations, service data, maps.
Partnerships: councils, housing providers, schools, businesses, faith groups.
Tangible change: a renovated space, a new service, local jobs.
Inclusion: reaching groups often left out.
Sustainability: ownership and maintenance plans.

Show resident voice

Describe how residents were consulted and what they said: "At three open meetings attended by 140 residents, the top priority was a safe place for young people in the evenings." Include a short quote or two, and note residents' roles in delivery and governance.

Outcomes and indicators

Outcome	Indicator
Better use of public space	Footfall counts, event numbers
Stronger community networks	Volunteers recruited, groups formed
Improved perception of safety	Resident survey before and after
Local economic activity	New stalls, businesses or jobs

Example summary

Example

Northbrook Residents' Association requests $40,000 toward the $60,000 transformation of a derelict corner lot into a community green with seating, lighting, a play area and a weekly market space. The plan was chosen by residents through a consultation that reached over 300 households.

The council will provide the land on a ten-year lease and maintain lighting; residents have formed a volunteer group to run the market and care for planting. We expect the space to host at least 40 community events in its first year.

Sustainability

Explain who owns, insures and maintains what, how running costs are covered, and how residents stay involved. Leases, maintenance agreements and volunteer structures make this credible.

See the complete process in how to write a grant proposal, and browse all community development grant templates.

How to Write a Community Development Grant Proposal