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Culture grants 2026

The Stroud District Culture Grants Programme supports cultural activity that strengthens communities, celebrates creativity, and contributes to the district’s cultural, social and economic wellbeing.

The programme will run three funding rounds per year, with each round focused on two themed priorities drawn from the Culture Strategy.  The programme supports organisations, community groups, cultural practitioners and partnerships to deliver high-quality cultural activity across the Stroud District.

Eligibility

Applications are welcomed from early career artists, students, arts, culture and community organisations, and charities based in Stroud district. Applicants must be aged 18 years or over to apply. Applications are welcomed from groups but there must be one lead applicant. If the project involves young people a valid DBS certificate or safeguarding policy may be requested. Projects must take place within Stroud district. 

Exclusions

For-profit organisations may not apply. 

Supported projects

Projects will meet the criteria and theme for each round which are listed below. 

Below is a list of the themes and link to the strategy Cultural Strategy :

  •        Future generations
  •        Communicating, connecting and collaborating
  •        Creativity, Climate and Nature
  •        Economy and regeneration
  •        Communities and wellbeing
  •        Heritage and plans

Types of grant available

Each round there will be the following grants available to apply for:- 

2 x Main Grant = £2500

10 x Medium Grant= £1000

10 x Small Grant = £500

Criteria 

Type of Grant Grant Detail  Expected Outcomes

Main Grant

For larger or more ambitious cultural projects that deliver significant impact aligned with both themes in the round.

  • District‑wide or multi‑community reach

  • Strong partnerships or community engagement

  • Clear artistic, cultural or heritage value

  • Demonstrable legacy or learning beyond the project

Medium Grant

For well developed local projects that respond clearly to at least one of the round’s themes.

  • Strong community participation or audience engagement

  • Clear contribution to local cultural life

  • Evident planning, delivery and evaluation approach

Small Grant

For grassroots, emerging or pilot activity, supporting experimentation, new ideas or local delivery.

  • Local or neighbourhood‑level impact

  • Accessible, inclusive cultural activity

  • Opportunities for artists, residents or volunteers

Grant rounds

 

Applications, deadlines and assessment dates

Please click here to access the application form 

Name of Round Opening Date for Applications Closing Date for Applications 
Round 2 
Creative Communities & Wellbeing 
  Monday 25th May 2026  Monday 6th July 2026
Round 3
Our Place, Heritage & Regeneration
  Monday 24th August 2026  Monday 5th October 2026
Round 4
Future, Climate & Nature
  Monday 23rd November 2026  Monday 11th January 2026

Successful applicants will be required to feedback on the results of the project to gather information and learning on the impacts of the grant. They will also be expected to use SDC’s branding and publicity guidance when promoting their project.

Please note this is a competitive grant competition. Submission of an application does not guarantee funding will be awarded.