Greener Futures Fund invites applicants from Westminster

First created by international property and place management specialist Grosvenor in 2021, the Greener Futures Fund aims to empower communities to take local action against climate change. The second round is now open to individuals and organisations in one of London’s busiest boroughs.

Managed by the London Community Foundation, those deciding on who receives funding in the latest tranche are particularly interested in projects taking place in the neighbourhoods of Belgravia and Mayfair. 

Grants of between £5,000 and £20,000 over one or two years will be available. The amount of money awarded will fall in line with the perceived or proven impact of the winning projects. Closing date to submit plans is Friday 31st March 2023 at 12PM (midday), and a briefing, with question and answer session, will take place online at 3PM on Friday 10th March. 

In order to be eligible, applicants must show their efforts have a positive impact on the local environment, encourage local people to engage in grass roots climate activities, raise awareness of climate change and behaviours that lead to more action at a local level, or develop and share knowledge about the environment locally. Other criteria includes the provision of skills, training and job opportunities connected to climate response, or boosting access to nature and nature-based solutions. 

While applicants themselves do not need to be based in Westminster, they should have a good knowledge of the area and projects put forward for consideration must directly impact the borough. You can find full details here. 

Organisations can also apply for money which will be held and administered as a central fund open to localised applications for smaller grants, each up to £500. This includes new projects that do not currently exist. Anyone pursuing this route will be subject to checks to ensure they have a strong understanding of grant procedures. Those interested in this option should contact the London Community Foundation directly before submitting a formal proposal. 

Earlier this year, Environment Journal published a long-form investigation into how local authorities can attract green finance. Revisit our work here.

Image: Jacob Thibodeau