Ashton Pride in Place Small Grants Scheme

Funding now available for community projects across Ashton

More than £839,000 is available through the Ashton Pride in Place Small Grants Scheme to support projects that strengthen communities, improve local facilities, increase participation and help make Ashton an even better place to live, work and visit.

The scheme forms part of the wider Ashton Pride in Place programme, which is supporting community-led improvements alongside investment and regeneration projects across the town.

Funding available

Funding is available through three grant programmes:

Community organisations grant

Funding is available to support projects that strengthen community organisations and improve services for local residents.

Projects may include:

• Community centres
• Charities and voluntary groups
• Food banks
• Cultural organisations
• Projects that reduce social isolation
• Volunteer recruitment and development
• Building improvements and equipment purchases

Sports and leisure grant

Funding is available for projects that improve sports and leisure opportunities across Ashton.

Projects may include:

• Improvements to sports and leisure facilities
• Accessibility and inclusion projects
• New equipment
• Sports and physical activity opportunities
• Programmes that encourage more residents to get active

Events grant

Funding is available for events and activities that bring communities together and attract visitors to Ashton.

Projects may include:

• markets
• family events
• community celebrations
• cultural activities
• creative workshops
• live music and entertainment

Who can apply?

Applications are welcome from eligible:

• Community organisations
• Voluntary groups
• Registered charities
• Faith organisations
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Sports clubs
• Event organisers delivering projects within the Ashton Pride in Place area

To apply, organisations must:

• Be based in Ashton-under-Lyne or deliver activities that directly benefit communities within the Ashton Pride in Place area
• Have a governing document such as a constitution or articles of association
• Have a bank account in the organisation's name
• Demonstrate how the project supports Ashton Pride in Place priorities

Before you apply

Applications should include:

• a completed application form
• costed proposals
• evidence that the project supports at least one programme priority
• information demonstrating your ability to deliver the project

Applications that include quotations for capital works may score more highly as they demonstrate value for money.

Apply now

Applications are now open.

Application deadline: 12 noon on Monday 30 November 2026.

Applications should be submitted:

By email to ashtontownboard@tamesidegov.uk

In person at Tameside One Reception, for the attention of the Strategic Growth Unit

Download Application form

Download eligibility criteria

Download Regeneration Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the priorities?

Projects should support one or more of the following priorities:

• Community cohesion
• Community power
• Education and opportunity
• Health and wellbeing
• Housing
• Regeneration, high streets and heritage
• Safety and security
• Transport
• Work, productivity and skills

What cannot be funded?

Funding is not available for:

• individuals
• private businesses
• political activities
• religious promotion
• statutory services
• projects that have already received Pride in Place funding for the same activity
• overseas travel and activities
• fundraising appeals and sponsorships
• gifts and presents

How applications will be assessed?

Applications will be assessed against:

• Strategic fit
• Financial fit
• Deliverability

Eligible applications will be reviewed and scored by a panel of Neighbourhood Board members and Council officers.

What happens if my application is successful?

Successful applicants will receive a grant offer letter and be asked to sign a Grant Funding Agreement before funding is released. Funding will then be processed via BACS payment.

Successful applicants will also be required to provide progress updates and a final evaluation report, including supporting evidence where appropriate.

Do I need to be based in Ashton?

No. Your organisation can apply if it delivers activities that directly benefit communities within the Ashton Pride in Place area.

What can funding be used for?

Funding can support community facilities, sports and leisure improvements, equipment, volunteering programmes, activities and events that benefit Ashton residents.

Can organisations submit more than one application?

Yes. Organisations can submit more than one application where they relate to different projects and meet the eligibility criteria. However, an organisation cannot receive more than one grant for the same project.

Where can I get help with my application?

Email ashtontownboard@tamesidegov.uk  or call 0161 342 3111.