Community groups can apply for grants of up to 3,000 pounds

Community groups and charities in Birmingham can apply for grants of between 500 and 3,000 pounds from the Birmingham and Black Country Communities Fund.

The fund is run by the Heart of England Community Foundation and has no fixed deadline.

What it funds

The fund supports projects that improve health and wellbeing, tackle disadvantage, respond to local needs, strengthen community cohesion or help to create sustainable and supportive communities.

Money can be used for start-up costs, extending or developing an existing project, pilot schemes, equipment and other resources. Items of equipment costing more than 300 pounds need quotes, and grants must be spent within a year.

Who can apply

Registered charities, constituted community groups, companies limited by guarantee with charitable aims, community interest companies, social enterprises and registered community benefit societies can apply. Organisations must work in Birmingham or the Black Country and have an annual income of no more than 500,000 pounds.

They must also have a proper governing document, at least three unrelated committee or board members, and a bank account in the organisation's name with at least two unrelated signatories.

About the foundation

The Heart of England Community Foundation manages funds on behalf of companies, individuals and public bodies, and distributes grants to small local groups. Community foundations are often able to reach groups that are too small to apply to large national funders.

Tips for applying

Funders look for a clear description of the need, what the project will do, who will benefit and how you will know it has worked. Groups are encouraged to include evidence of local demand, such as feedback from the people they support.

Other sources of help

Birmingham Voluntary Service Council supports local charities and community groups with advice on funding, governance and volunteering, and publishes information about other funding opportunities in the city.