The Dorset Council Capital Leverage Fund news release advises that applications are open for funding for community groups across the Dorset Council area to improve local facilities and spaces.
Grants can help with a range of initiatives, including:
- enhancing or renovating village halls and other community buildings
- creating facilities such as car parks, play areas, and multi-use games areas
- upgrading theatres, sports clubs, pitches and outdoor spaces
Not‑for‑profit organisations are invited to apply for grants of between £1,000 and £25,000 through Round 7 of the Capital Leverage Fund. It is open for applications until January 2027.
Projects must meet at least one of the Dorset Council priorities and at least one of the Cultural Strategy priorities if you are applying as a cultural organisation.
Applications are open until midnight on Sunday 10 January 2027 and must be submitted using the online application form.
Applicants can find out more about the fund, eligibility, funding criteria including exclusions and how to apply on the capital leverage webpages.
There will be two assessment dates when awards will be considered – September 2026 and again in January 2027.
To speak to someone regarding your application, you can contact a member of the team by email:
- communities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for community projects
- leisure@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for culture‑themed projects
Please note, the Capital Leverage Funding is in addition to funding from the Dorset Council Youth Fund which is open for applications until 20 May 2026. The Dorset Council Youth Fund awards funding to voluntary and community sector organisations supporting children and young people. Find out how to apply to the Youth Fund here (applications close 20 May 2026).