Calderdale Thriving Towns Micro Grants September 2026
Thriving Towns Fund Objectives
The Thriving Towns Fund has been established to support community-led events, cultural activity and creative projects that bring people together, increase footfall, animate public spaces and contribute to thriving town centres across Calderdale.
The fund aims to provide accessible, small-scale investment that enables communities and organisations to test ideas, deliver events and create social, cultural and economic benefits for their local area.
A total of £13,000 is available.
Applications are now open for Micro grants of £250 - £750 for events held between October 2026 and March 2027
The funding is direct from Calderdale council, and organisations will need to evidence the impact of the funding through monitoring and evaluation.
Micro Grants of up to £250 should demonstrate how they contribute to one or more of the following:
• Create opportunities for local communities to participate in cultural, creative and community activity.
• Stimulate local pride, identity and a sense of place.
• Encourage collaboration between community groups, businesses, cultural organisations and local partners.
• Celebrate Calderdale's heritage, culture, creativity and distinct local identities.
• Support local artists, performers, creative practitioners and cultural organisations.
• Encourage projects that include skills development, volunteering opportunities, community networks or future cultural programmes.
• Promote inclusive activities that are accessible to a wide range of residents and visitors.
• Contribute to the visitor economy by encouraging spending within local businesses.
• Support environmental sustainability through responsible event planning and delivery.
Additional Criteria for grants of £750 Town Centre Fund
Projects applying for the larger grant should also demonstrate how they will:
• Improve perceptions of town centres as welcoming, vibrant and engaging places.
• Deliver activity within a recognised town centre or high street location.
• Increase footfall and encourage more people to visit Calderdale's town and local centres.
• Support the animation and activation of public spaces, town centres and newly regenerated areas.
• Increase dwell time and spending within local businesses.
• Deliver activities that attract new audiences and encourage repeat visits to town centres.
• Work in partnership with local businesses, traders, BID organisations or community stakeholders where appropriate.
• Contribute to the wider regeneration, promotion or revitalisation of the town centre.
• Attract visitors from outside the immediate area and raise the profile of the town.
• Encourage innovative ideas that test new approaches to animating public spaces and engaging communities.
First time event organisers are encouraged to apply – please contact our team if you would like some support by emailing culturedale@calderdale.gov.uk
In collaboration with the Calderdale Council events team, and Visit Calderdale we will be hosting a series of information events – please book your space using the links below:
6pm 22nd September Hebden Bridge
For further advice and support please contact culturedale@calderdale.gov.uk
To apply please complete the application form before 12 noon on Sunday 18th October.
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