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Small Grants Scheme

Our Small Grants Scheme helps local residents, community groups and charities bring great ideas to life and make a positive difference in Old Oak, Park Royal and the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Since 2019, we've supported more than 70 community projects, reaching over 62,000 people across west London. From youth clubs and mentoring programmes to community events, foodbanks, wellbeing initiatives and creative projects, the scheme helps strengthen communities and improve everyday life.

Grants of £1,000 to £7,000 are available to support local projects that bring people together, develop skills, improve wellbeing and create opportunities for residents of all ages and backgrounds. 

The 2026/27 Small Grants Scheme is now closed for applications.

We launch applications on an annual basis, usually in the winter. 

Last year's highlights

£70k

funding given out in the 2025/2026 programme

150

young steel pan players performed at Windrush Day celebration

61

household essential parcels were given to families facing hardship

80

older people in Brent were hand delivered Christmas cards made by local young people

Small Grants Scheme organisations

Find out more about the organisations who have benefited from the Small Grants Scheme in the past.

Map of the area covered by Old Oak and Park Royal

Who can apply?

Applications are welcome from:

  • Community and voluntary groups
  • Not-for-profit organisations
  • Registered charities
  • Local clubs and societies
  • Individuals delivering community-focused projects

Projects must benefit communities within the OPDC area or our host boroughs of Brent, Ealing and Hammersmith & Fulham. 

Eligibility criteria

Applicants should:

  • Be linked to a community, voluntary, business or social organisation that works closely with the local community to make a positive difference.
  • Provide clear evidence of being from, operating within or positively impacting communities in the local area (see map).
  • Demonstrate strong links within the community.
  • Be well placed to deliver a project that will benefit local residents. 

What we look for

This year we are supporting projects that:

  • Strengthen local communities and encourage participation.
  • Support underrepresented groups.
  • Help children and young people develop skills and opportunities.
  • Bring different generations together.
  • Improve wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
  • Help communities respond positively to local challenges and change.
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Apply for future funding

If you'd like to hear when the next funding round opens, get in touch with the team and we'll let you know when applications are open. 

Get in touch
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Hear from our Small Grants Scheme organisations

“We are absolutely delighted to receive funding from OPDC for our Community-led Health Equity Ambassador Programme. This support enables us to train local residents as changemakers, using culture, music, and lived experience to bridge gaps in health access and wellbeing.

“It’s a powerful affirmation of the role communities can play in driving equitable, grassroots solutions, and we’re proud to be working with OPDC to bring this vision to life.” Malombo Music

Image of two young men drawing at a yellow desk

“OPDC funding has enabled our project to make a strong and productive start. With dedicated facilitators and professional guidance, we have been able to run creative sessions focused on redesigning the tunnels, exploring environmental themes, and promoting active travel. Participants have collaborated through colouring exercises, idea-generation workshops, and group discussions, helping to build confidence and strengthen connection.

“...Thanks to OPDC’s support, we are well-resourced, well-organised, and excited to continue developing the project into next year.” The Sortie Project CIC 

Related content

Support and resources

Find out more about the support available to local communities and organisations living and working in the Old Oak and Park Royal area.

Read more