Ask any grassroots football volunteer what keeps them awake during the summer and chances are it isn’t tactics or transfers.
It’s money.
Pitch hire continues to rise, equipment isn’t getting any cheaper and many clubs are working harder than ever just to keep football affordable for local families.
The good news is there are funding opportunities available—but many clubs either don’t know they exist or assume they won’t qualify.
Here are five opportunities grassroots clubs should look at this summer.
1️⃣ Lionesses HERe to Play Fund ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of the biggest funding opportunities currently available.
The Football Foundation’s Lionesses HERe to Play Fund is supporting the growth of women’s and girls’ football through grants for new teams, recreational programmes and facility improvements.
Funding can support:
- Kit and equipment
- Facility hire
- Referee costs
- League affiliation
- Coach education
- Volunteer training
- Insurance
Grants range from £500 up to £7,500 for teams and programmes, while separate facility grants can reach £25,000 for projects that improve access and inclusivity for women and girls. The current funding window runs until 30 September 2026.
Editor’s Verdict
If you’re starting a girls’ team this season…
2️⃣ Football Foundation Small Grants ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
The Football Foundation continues to support grassroots clubs through a range of programmes covering goalposts, facilities, changing rooms and community football improvements.
Although different funding streams open throughout the year, it is worth checking regularly as opportunities change depending on available funding.
Editor’s Verdict
Definitely worth considering…
3️⃣ Sport England Movement Fund ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Sport England continues to invest in projects that help more people become active, particularly under-represented groups and community organisations.
Many grassroots football clubs are eligible if they’re delivering wider community outcomes beyond football alone.
Examples include:
- Disability football
- Women’s participation
- Community wellbeing
- Volunteer development
Editor’s Verdict
A little more work, but one that is often missed
4️⃣ Local Authority Community Grants ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
One of the most overlooked opportunities.
Many councils operate community grants for:
- Equipment
- Facility improvements
- Health initiatives
- Youth engagement
Our advice?
Search:
“[Your Council] Community Grant”
You might be surprised what’s available.
5️⃣ Local Business Sponsorship ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Not technically a grant.
But probably the most underused source of funding.
Many local businesses would happily contribute £250–£1,000 if approached professionally.
Think beyond shirt sponsorship.
Offer:
- Match Ball Sponsor
- Volunteer Sponsor
- Respect Sponsor
- Player of the Month
- Warm-Up Sponsor
Small contributions from several businesses often have a bigger impact than relying on one major sponsor.
Editor’s Advice
Don’t wait until your club runs out of money.
The best-run clubs plan funding just like they plan fixtures.
Assign one committee member responsibility for grants and sponsorships, set aside time each month to review opportunities and keep the necessary paperwork up to date.
A successful application often comes down to preparation rather than luck.
TeamGrassroots Tip
If you’re applying for funding:
📸 Take good photos.
📊 Gather participation numbers.
❤️ Explain the community impact.
Most funders invest in people…
Not footballs.
Have we missed one?
Know of a funding opportunity that could help grassroots clubs?
Share it in the comments below and we’ll add it to our growing funding hub.
0 Comments