Small grants Scheme - Connecting People and Landscapes
What is the Connecting People and Landscapes small grant scheme?
We're delighted to be administering a small grant scheme designed to encourage community groups (particularly underserved groups) to engage with nature-friendly farming, increase knowledge of local farming practices and local biodiversity, as well as support community building and community environmental projects. We want to support groups to access nature and encourage links with their local farms.
1st round deadline: 15th June 2026
What could be funded?
The following are examples of what we may be able to support, but this list is not exhaustive:
- Volunteer or group travel costs for nature-based outings
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) for accessing the natural environment, e.g. raincoats or wellies
- Hosting a community event, walk or workshop
- A nature-related arts project
In addition to the monies, all successful applicants will be offered support from the Connecting People and Landscapes team to arrange a visit to a local farm or to co-host a community activity such as a walk, workshop or event. This is a great opportunity for groups to learn more about nature-friendly farming, local species and connect with local farmers.
How much can we apply for?
We have £5000 each year for the small grant scheme. Individual applications are invited up to a maximum of £500.
How will the applications be assessed?
The grant will be scored on the following criteria:
- Geographical location: Higher points for applications from community groups located near the focus farms/in the target areas. These farms are: Springwater Farm nr Exeter, Gappah Farm nr Chudleigh, Blackmore Farm nr Buckfast, Pullhayes Farm nr East Budleigh, Ramsland Farm nr Holbeton and Firebeacon Farm nr Tiverton
2. Increase Community Engagement and Empowerment
- How does the project actively involve local residents, young people, or community groups?
- How many community members will benefit?
- What plans are there plans to facilitate active participation that promote awareness and education around local heritage, nature friendly farming practices and community building?
3. Support Underserved Communities
- Does the project target underserved communities, youth groups or local groups to ensure diverse participation by funding local farm visits and/or environmental projects?
- Does the project create opportunities to strengthen local place-based social networks and foster inclusive collaboration between community members and local farms?
- Does the project foster connections between underserved groups in the community and local farms?
4. Foster Sustainable Practices:
- Does the project promote sustainability and community stewardship?
- Does the project support initiatives that educate the community about sustainable farming practices, conservation or local biodiversity?
- Can the project be replicated by other communities or farms?
Grant conditions:
- Promote active learning: Grant awards to be conditional on the grant recipient co-hosting a community or group event/activity with the support of the Connecting People and Landscapes project team or attending a visit to a local farm.
- In-Kind support: Must be matched by at least 25% volunteer in-kind support.
If I have a question, who should I ask?
For support with your application, please contact Jenny Archard:
jenny.archard@devoncommunities.org.uk
01392 248919
Please read these guidance notes before submitting your application
1st round deadline: 15th June 2026
Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage. Connecting People and Landscapes project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we are working to bring together farmers and communities across Devon to create a more resilient landscape in the face of changing climate. John Swire 1989 Charitable Trust have provided Connecting People and Landscapes with funding to support its traineeships programme.
