Find out everything you need to know about Lewisham Main Grants 2026 - 2029
The deadline for applications was Monday 6 October 2025 - 5pm and grants have been allocated
Definitions
- The Theory of Change - intended outputs, outcomes and impact
- Definitions - what we mean by Infrastructure and capacity building
- What are our Main Grants Neighbourhood Areas - these areas are specific to the Main Grants Programme
Overview
The Main Grants Programme provides three years of funding from April 2026 to March 2029. The funding comes directly from Lewisham Council’s budget as part of its long-standing support for the borough’s voluntary and community sector (VCS), with a contribution from the Better Care Fund. For the 2026–2029 cycle, the total programme value is £2,112,308, made up of approx. £1.6m from Council funds and £0.5m from the Better Care Fund.
What's new for 2026-2029 Main Grants
The 2026–2029 Main Grants Programme introduces several important changes aimed at strengthening the voluntary and community sector (VCS) while adapting to reduced funding levels. The changes have been agreed following consultation with the VCS and the wider public and reflect the majority view on how Main Grants should adapt to the changing funding landscape.
Funds
Neighbourhood Infrastructure and Capacity Building Grants
In each of the four neighbourhoods, we have funded a formal partnership with one lead applicant, delivering on a package of neighbourhood-focused services
What are our neighbourhoods - these areas are specific to main grants
Borough-Wide Infrastructure and Capacity Building Grants
We have funded various organisations to deliver infrastructure, capacity building, and voice and representation projects borough-wide. Find out more.
Transition Grants - for organisations who were funded by Main Grants
We understand that shifting from funding frontline service delivery to supporting neighbourhood and borough-wide infrastructure is a significant change. This transition may place added pressure on long-standing frontline organisations.
To support this shift, we’ve funded some previously funded organisations to help existing frontline services adapt and build resilience, while laying strong foundations for future infrastructure.
What we do not fund with Lewisham Main Grants
- Lobbying, political activity or the promotion of private interests
- Projects with significant ongoing financial/revenue implications for the council which are not covered by the bid
- Religious activity (although we can fund religious organisations if their project benefits the wider community and doesn’t include religious content)
What are the Main Grants Neighbourhood Areas
We have four neighbourhood areas - it is important to understand what wards are in each neighbourhood if you are planning to apply for a neighbourhood grant.
Glossary
Find definition of terms in our glossary
Contact us about Lewisham Main Grants 2026-2029
We have a dedicated email address for your questions. Alternatively you can contact a community development officer for more information.