FAQs will be posted here as we get them, so this will be a dynamic section.
Can NCIL 2025–2027 grant recipients still apply?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for the grant you're applying for. However, only those who are already funded by Main Grants up to 31st March 2026 can apply for Transition grants.
What is meant by a “front door service”?
A front door service is a point of contact where residents can reach you—by phone, email, or in person—to ask for help or information about local services. It’s about being accessible and signposting people to what they need.
Is applying for a neighbourhood grant more challenging than a borough-wide one?
The neighbourhood model is new and more complex, which is why it was covered in more detail during the workshop. However, it also offers more funding and the potential for stronger local outcomes.
Will one organisation or partnership lead each neighbourhood?
Yes. We expect partnerships to deliver on this model, as no single organisation is likely to deliver all the required functions. Local knowledge and collaboration are key, and applications should reflect both
For borough-wide grants, will only one organisation be selected per area?
Yes. We expect to award one organisation per borough-wide criteria apart from the cultural grants supporting our Cultural Strategy. Partnerships are not required at this level due to the smaller scale of funding and specific expertise required.
Will it be clear when FAQs information is updated?
Yes. Each time FAQs are updated will include the date content was added or updated.
We’re currently funded to support Black health outcomes with our GP—can we apply to build capacity under the neighbourhood model?
It depends on your proposal. This grant round focuses on infrastructure rather than frontline services. Review the guidance to see where your work fits. If you're unsure, you're encouraged to ask questions or attend future workshops. You should also seek out and work with others who are likely to apply for the neighbourhood grant in your area. You can use the grant workshops to assess who is likely to apply to either lead or be part of your neighbourhood model.
Can one organisation lead across multiple neighbourhoods?
Yes. You can lead in one or more neighbourhoods or act as a partner across several. It depends on your capacity and expertise. In-person meetings will be held to help form partnerships in early September, but don’t wait to start conversations.
How can grassroots groups get involved?
Small organisations delivering frontline services are encouraged to attend workshops to understand how the neighbourhood model will work and explore what role they can play within the developing model and how they will connect with it over the period of the grant programme.. While the Programme focuses on infrastructure, and this requires specific expertise and capacity, small grants may be available through lead organisations. The development of bids will also require significant time in the next 2-3 months. Consider whether you have the capacity to engage directly or prefer to influence the model being developed.
Can we share partnership ideas early and get feedback?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to share ideas and seek informal feedback. While we can’t offer detailed advice (to ensure fairness), we’re open to discussing whether your ideas align with the programme’ s aims.
Looking at the Transition Grant, does previous Partnership Grant funding count as Main Grant funding?
No. Only organisations currently funded through the Main Grants programme (until 31 March 2026) are eligible. The Partnership Grant was a separate, newer initiative.