Dorset Council is inviting not-for-profit community groups to apply for capital funding with the deadline for applications being 12 September.

The Capital Leverage Fund can help fund a range of projects, including village hall or community building enhancements, renovations, maintenance, or new build projects, including car parks, play areas, multi-use games areas, theatres, community sports clubs, sports pitches and landscaping.

The authority also welcomes applications for projects that helps to address climate change themes, new public art, or heritage capital projects including accredited museums.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Customer and Community Services, said: “We hope to see many applications for these grants. There are grants available for up to £25,000 depending on the project.

“We know that the grants can significantly boost capital projects that can demonstrate how they support their local communities and help to make Dorset a great place to live, work and visit.”

You can apply for a capital grant of between £1,000 and £25,000, to fund up to 20 per cent of your total project costs.

Projects need to meet at least one of the Dorset Council priorities and the Cultural Strategy priorities.

Applications can only be accepted via our online application form.

To apply for a grant, you can download the application guidance, support materials and an application form from the Dorset Council website.

Applications are considered three times a year and the final round three of the grants will be early next year.

If you’d like to speak to us about your project, or need more information email:

Community and voluntary sector applicants (including play): communities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Cultural applicants (arts, accredited museums, heritage, sports and physical activity): leisureWDWP@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk