The National Archives have launched their new national Seed Corn Grants scheme which is part of their new ‘Spaces, Places and Belonging’ Community Hub, launching in early 2026.
Community groups, Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums (GLAM) and other heritage organisations working with communities in the UK can apply now for grants of between £500 and £5,000.
The funding is intended to support early-stage, exploratory projects that aim to spark new ideas and innovative approaches to community engagement with heritage. The grants are particularly designed to help organisations test concepts, build partnerships, or pilot activities, with a strong emphasis on experimentation and learning.
Applications are particularly encouraged from smaller and grassroots groups.
The grants can support a wide range of costs, including but not limited to:
There will be two application rounds, one in 2025 and another in February 2026.
Round One is open for applications with a deadline of 28 November 2025.
Grants are available for UK registered charities to support social and criminal justice projects in the UK.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available for UK registered charities for specific projects that improve communication skills for disadvantaged adults and supports NEET people into employment.
Grants for registered charities and local causes which help young people to achieve their potential.