Most of the grants we award are between £1,000 and £5,000. We support local grassroots organisations that are well-placed to identify and address local needs and who deliver services and activities that improve the lives of Dorset residents. We want our grants to support and reflect the diversity of our county and we welcome applications from groups supporting diverse communities including those who may be facing discrimination. Our awards to individuals support young people to develop and improve their life chances.

Whether you are looking for funding for an organisation or an individual you will be asked to submit an application form. Your application will be assessed and decisions about funding made by a grants panel. Our grants panels are made up of DCF trustees and fundholders, and people who have professional or lived experience of local needs and the services & activities supporting our communities.

Pre-application support is available for anyone in need of advice about the application process, or if you are unsure whether your project/activity is suitable. Please email our Grants Manager to arrange a 20 minute phone call.

Please also contact us if you need the application form in an alternative format.

Grants Manager, Ellie Maguire: 07592 032666 / grants@dorsetcf.org