GRASSROOTS projects that strengthen communities in Rother can apply to share a total of £100,000 in funding as the latest Community Grants Scheme opens to applicants.
The Grants, managed by Sussex Community Foundation on behalf of Rother District Council, aim to boost causes which promote a thriving local economy, improve wellbeing and protect the environment.
Previous projects which have benefitted from the scheme include lunch clubs and community pantries to energy improvements at village halls.
In addition, this year, projects that support and celebrate the European Year of the Normans 2027 are encouraged, provided they also meet one or more of the scheme’s core funding priorities.
Cllr Doug Oliver, leader of Rother District Council and chair of the grants panel, said: “The Community Grants Scheme is a fantastic opportunity for those involved in worthwhile community projects to gain a generous cash injection to help their mission of supporting the people and places of Rother.
“Every year we are delighted to see how the grants positively impact an array of projects that help connect people living and working in the area. We are really looking forward to seeing this year’s applications coming in and we are certain the calibre will be as high and as inspirational as ever.”
Applicants can apply for up to £10,000 in revenue grants and up to £20,000 for capital grants.The former supports day-to-day costs, staff, equipment and project delivery for up to 12 months and the latter are for building works, major equipment or refurbishment.
Not-for-profit organisations including charities, community organisations and social enterprises with an income of less than £2 million can apply to the fund. Parish councils are also eligible to apply to the fund, but community-led partnerships, where the community group takes the lead will take priority.
Applicants should be based in East Sussex and demonstrate their ability to work locally in Rother through established networks or with local partner organisations. Applications will only be accepted from formally constituted groups with a bank account set up in the name of the organisation.
The funding criteria is based on three of the four Sussex Community Foundation funding priorities and aligned Rother priorities, namely: reaching potential/a thriving local economy; improving health/live well locally and acting on climate/green to the core.
The scheme is made possible with the help of funds raised through the Rother Community Lottery, with the initiative contributing almost £50,000 between 2021 and 2025.
From every £1 ticket sold 60p will go to good causes in Rother district. Local organisations receive 50p as directly chosen by the lottery’s participants and the remaining 10p goes towards a general good cause fund which is distributed to local organisations through the council’s grants scheme.
Applications close on Friday, October 16 and interested parties can apply by visiting: https://sussexcommunityfoundation.org/grants/how-to-apply/additional-grants/rother-district-council-community-grants/. Grants will be awarded during January 2027.
Published: 9th September 2026
