West Northamptonshire Council is launching a £260,000 funding programme to support charities, social enterprises, faith groups, and community organisations across the region by strengthening their capacity, skills, and long-term sustainability. The initiative will deliver a Local Infrastructure Organisation (LIO) grant aimed at helping voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) groups—particularly small, micro, and resident-led organisations in priority neighbourhoods—become more resilient, better funded, and more effectively engaged in local decision-making. The selected organisation or consortium will provide tailored support to improve governance, safeguarding, financial management, fundraising capacity, and workforce development, while also helping groups access external funding and build stronger volunteer and trustee networks.
The programme is closely aligned with West Northamptonshire Council’s Prevention Strategy and Local Area Partnerships approach, focusing on early help, community resilience, and reducing pressure on crisis services. It will also ensure the VCFSE sector has a stronger voice in shaping local policies and priorities. Delivery will include one-to-one organisational support, training, coaching, and tools to help groups develop robust plans and secure funding, alongside targeted assistance for organisations experiencing growth or operational challenges. Council representatives say the investment is designed to strengthen the “backbone” of local community support by enabling organisations to expand their impact and better serve residents across West Northamptonshire. Applications for the grant close at 10am on Wednesday 13 May 2026.
