Stroud District Council is proud to announce the launch of a second wave of community-led projects through its successful crowdfunding initiative, Stroud Funding.
Building on the momentum of the first round, which saw all 17 projects reach their goals with the support of 1,879 backers and over £254,000 raised, the Spring 2025 launch introduces a fresh set of initiatives aimed at improving local areas and strengthening community ties.
There are 16 projects to support, including a new youth club in Stroud, a community sauna and ice bath in Nailsworth, upgrading a children’s play area in Wotton-under-Edge and new equipment to lifeboats in Sharpness.
Stroud Funding empowers people to bring their ideas to life by raising funds locally, with the opportunity to receive a financial pledge from a council’s fund of £135,000 for 2025/26. Projects that align with Stroud District Council's core values - such as environmental sustainability, climate action, and community wellbeing - are eligible for support once they demonstrate strong community backing. The council’s contribution is tied to the projects achieving their funding targets.
Each project has its own dedicated page on the Stroud Funding platform, where supporters can learn more about the initiative, view cost breakdowns, see photos, and read updates.
In addition to pledging money, residents can also contribute their time, skills, or resources to help bring these ideas to fruition.
This second round continues the council’s partnership with Spacehive, the UK’s leading civic crowdfunding platform. Spacehive has helped launch over 2,000 community projects nationwide, raising more than £30 million to support local innovation and collaboration.
Kathy O’Leary, Chief Executive of Stroud District Council said:
“The success of the first round of Stroud Funding showed just how much passion and creativity exists within our communities. We’re delighted to support a new wave of projects and encourage everyone to get involved - whether by pledging, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.”
Misha Dhanak, CEO of Spacehive added:
“These community-driven initiatives reflect the priorities and energy of the people who know their neighbourhoods best - and they’re poised to make a lasting impact. By coming together to fundraise, residents are not only bringing their ideas to life but also strengthening the bonds that make communities resilient and vibrant. We’re excited to support this next wave of projects that champion everything from green spaces to youth services, creating real, positive change.”
People are invited to explore the new projects and find out how they can contribute to shaping the future of their neighbourhoods. From green spaces to shared community resources, each initiative represents a step toward a more connected, resilient, and vibrant Stroud district.
Stroud Funding round three will be launched in Autumn 2025. To find out how to join the Stroud Funding platform visit the website (above) or contact the council’s Community Services team by email at community.grants@stroud.gov.uk or phone on 01453 766321.
The Spring 2025 projects are:
- The Long Street Summer Social by Under the Edge Arts
- Long Live the Access Bike Project! by Creative Sustainability CIC
- ORAOK Expert by Experience workshops by Ollies Random Acts of Kindness
- Saving Lives with Lifeboat Communication by Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA)
- Oakbrook Community Farm Needs Shelter by Oakbrook Community Farm
- Let’s Grow It at the Arkell Centre by Nailsworth Climate Action Network
- Stroud Community Sauna and Ice Bath by Vesta Community Sauna CIC
- Support Redz – Stroud’s First Youth Hub! – by Stroud Community Space CIC
- Symn Lane Play Area Project by Wotton Under Edge Town Council Playground Project *
- Save Our Village Hall by Leonard Stanley Village Hall *
- Make Climbing Accessible for All by Stroud Climbing Commons Services
- Let the River Roar! By Sacred Severn
- Upgrading Stratford Skatepark – Pt1 by Activity First
- Two exciting new trails for Stroud By Stroud Valleys Project *
- Transform Stroud’s Textile Waste by Shalize Nicholas *
- Container Workshops for Community Growth By Cotswold Community Men's Shed
*Projects undergoing final verification checks.
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