Apply now for Community Climate Change and Nature Fund (UK)

Deadline: 31-May-2026

The Community Climate Change and Nature Fund supports community-led environmental projects in the High Peak area that focus on tackling climate change, improving biodiversity, and encouraging sustainable local action. The fund provides small grants to help communities reduce carbon emissions, strengthen climate resilience, and protect nature.

Established in 2021 by High Peak Borough Council, the initiative supports local organisations working on environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, renewable energy, and community engagement projects across the High Peak district.

Program Objectives

The fund aims to:

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Support climate change adaptation
• Improve biodiversity and natural habitats
• Encourage sustainable lifestyles and local environmental action
• Increase community awareness of climate and nature issues
• Strengthen climate resilience within local communities

Priority Areas

Supported projects may include:

• Energy efficiency improvements
• Renewable energy initiatives
• Active travel and cycling projects
• Air quality improvement activities
• Flood awareness and resilience projects
• Tree planting and habitat restoration
• Biodiversity conservation initiatives
• Citizen science and environmental monitoring projects
• Recycling and reuse activities
• Community education and engagement campaigns

Projects should directly contribute to the aims of the Climate and Nature Delivery Plan.

Funding Details

• Total funding available: £20,000
• Grant range: £400 to £5,000

Small Grants (£400–£1,000)

Designed for:

• Testing new ideas
• Pilot environmental projects
• Early-stage community initiatives

Medium Grants (£1,000–£2,000)

Designed for:

• Expanding successful activities
• Moving projects into the next development phase

Large Grants (£2,000–£5,000)

Designed for:

• Scaling projects with long-term sustainability
• Delivering wider environmental and community impact

Eligible Applicants

Eligible organisations include:

• Unincorporated associations
• Registered charities
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs)
• Newly formed non-constituted community groups

Applicants must operate within or provide benefits to people or places in the High Peak local authority district.

Ineligible Applicants

The following are not eligible:

• Individuals
• Private businesses
• Parish or town councils
• Organisations primarily involved in political activity

Eligible Costs

Funding may support:

• Building improvements
• Renewable technology installation
• Equipment purchases
• Plants and trees
• Marketing and promotional activities
• Training and workshops
• Venue and room hire
• Feasibility studies
• Community engagement and awareness activities

Both capital and revenue costs are eligible.

Ineligible Costs

Funding cannot support:

• Retrospective costs
• Recoverable VAT
• Statutory responsibilities
• Activities mainly promoting political or religious beliefs

Applicants may submit only one application per funding round.

How to Apply

1. Develop a climate or nature-focused community project
2. Explain how the project benefits the High Peak community
3. Prepare a realistic budget and activity plan
4. Demonstrate alignment with climate and biodiversity objectives
5. Submit one application per funding round through the grant process
6. Seek guidance from High Peak CVS if support is needed during application preparation

Evaluation Process

Applications are reviewed by a grant panel including representatives from:

• High Peak Borough Council
• Alliance Environmental Services
• Nature and biodiversity specialists

The program is administered by High Peak CVS, which provides guidance and support to applicants.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are assessed based on:

• Contribution to climate and biodiversity goals
• Community benefit and engagement
• Sustainability and long-term impact
• Feasibility and value for money
• Innovation and local relevance
• Alignment with the Climate and Nature Delivery Plan

Why This Fund Matters

The program helps communities:

• Take local action on climate change
• Improve biodiversity and green spaces
• Build environmental awareness and resilience
• Encourage sustainable living practices
• Strengthen local environmental partnerships and participation

Tips for Strong Applications

• Clearly explain environmental and community benefits
• Demonstrate measurable climate or biodiversity impact
• Include realistic budgets and timelines
• Show local community involvement and support
• Highlight sustainability and long-term outcomes
• Align the project closely with climate and nature priorities

FAQ

Who can apply for the fund?

Community groups, charities, CICs, CIOs, and unincorporated associations operating in High Peak are eligible.

How much funding is available?

Grants range from £400 to £5,000, with a total funding pot of £20,000.

What projects are supported?

The fund supports renewable energy, biodiversity, recycling, active travel, tree planting, environmental education, and other climate-related initiatives.

Can newly formed groups apply?

Yes, newly formed groups that are not yet constituted may apply.

Are private businesses eligible?

No, private businesses and individuals are not eligible.

Can funding cover equipment and training?

Yes, funding may support equipment purchases, training, workshops, and other project-related costs.

Conclusion

The Community Climate Change and Nature Fund supports local environmental action across High Peak by funding community-led projects that address climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability challenges. The initiative encourages innovative and practical solutions that help communities build resilience, improve natural environments, and create lasting environmental impact.

For more information, visit High Peak Borough Council.