The Prince’s Countryside Fund is inviting applications for grants of up to £25,000 from innovative projects that will create a long-term difference in remote rural areas of the UK

The PCF’s grant programme aims to empower rural communities to become more self-sufficient and viable, by funding community-led solutions. With thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the PCF aims to invest at least £500,000 each year through our grant programmes to make projects happen, particularly in hamlets, villages, and small towns.

The PCF is particularly interested in receiving applications from projects in East Anglia, the north east of England, Wales and Northern Ireland in this grant round.

The Northern Fells Group were awarded a grant by the PCF in April 2021. Libby Graham said:

“We’re using the funding to respond to the post-pandemic needs of our community, alongside the more than 250 volunteers who help us. Our Men in Sheds project is open three days a week and provides a safe place for men to meet to undertake a range of activities, like furniture repairs for the community. We are very grateful to the PCF for their support of our project.”

The PCF’s Village Survival Guide gives inspiration as to how communities can come together to build a real future for rural Britain, covering how to set up a number of projects, from transport schemes to better broadband.

If you have an idea for a project in your community, you can sign up to the PCF’s grants surgeries, to discuss this with the charity’s grant making team. Held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday at 2pm during the application period, you can book your slot at www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/grants.

Applications for grants close on 17 September 2021 at midday. To find out more about the PCF’s grant programmes, including eligibility criteria and a copy of the application form, visit www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk/grants.