Community Funding

What is the Community Fund?

Funding is available to support those projects that benefit the local community or environment within the Borough of Fareham.

• You can only apply for funding to meet 'one off' capital costs.
• Your project must be sustainable (i.e. it will keep going once the Council's financial support is spent). 
• You will need to describe what the funding will be used for
• You will need to explain how you will also contribute to the project (e.g. financially, labour, goodwill)
• If applying for more than £5,000, you will be expected to contribute at least the same amount of money to the project from other sources

The Community Fund will not be used to pay for:

• On-going running costs, utility bills or rental costs

• Projects that don't involve the wider community

• Trips, meals, holidays and expeditions

• Projects which will result in commercial or personal gain

• Charity donations.

• Retrospective funding for projects already under way or completed

Unfortunately we are also unable to accept applications from organisations that have already received funding from Fareham Borough Council within the 12 month period prior to the application. 

Who can apply?

Any resident, or organisation based in the Borough of Fareham can apply for money from the Community Fund. 

When can I apply?

You can apply at any time. 

How much can I apply for?

Any amount, but if you are applying for more than £5,000, you will be expected to contribute at least the same amount of money to the project from other sources.

What type of project is funded?

Our website has examples of successful projects. 

How can I apply?

It's easy. Start by contacting your Community Action Team (CAT) officer or other relevant officer to talk through your idea. See below for contact details

Who makes the final decision?

Your project will be initially assessed by a Community Action Team officer or other relevant officer who will advise you if the application meets the necessary criteria. They will work with you to complete the application form. If you are applying on behalf of an organisation you will need to include supporting documentation (e.g. audited accounts).

The completed application is then sent to the CAT Chairman and local Ward Councillors for comment. A report is then presented to the Executive Leader for a final decision. 

Applications over £5,000 are presented to a meeting of the Executive for consideration.  

When will I know if my application has been successful?

For grants of up to £5,000, once the application form is completed, a decision will be made as quickly as possible.  Applications over £5,000 are considered by the Council's Executive, and they meet once a month.
(Please note: Other Councillors have the right to 'call in' an individual decision made by the Executive Leader or the Council's Executive within 7 days of the decision. The Councillor can then ask questions about the decision. After this 'call in' period has passed, and subject to the applicant signing our terms and conditions, the money will be released.) 

How do I find out who the CAT Officer is for my area?

Fareham Town
Titchfield
Western Wards
Crofton
Portchester

Your local Community Action Team Officer will be able to help you to complete your bid application.  If you would like further advice on funding or have any questions, please contact your local CAT Officer on 01329 236100 or email cats@fareham.gov.uk