Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Community groups across East Devon are being invited to apply for a share of more than £118,000 in funding for local projects, events and rural community buildings.
The second round of East Devon District Council’s grant funding opened this week, with applications due to close at 5pm on Monday, 26 October.
However, the council has warned that the application window could close earlier because of the anticipated high level of interest.
A total of £118,454 is available in the latest round, with grants ranging from £300 to £1,500 for small community projects and from £500 to £10,000 for community buildings.
The funding comes from three schemes: the Community Buildings Grant, Small Community Grants and the East Devon Action on Poverty Fund.
The grants have been developed with input from the voluntary sector, with the aim of supporting projects that meet local needs across the district.
The council said it regularly hears from voluntary organisations interested in accessing grant funding and expects a high volume of applications.
Councillor Sam Hawkins, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Finance, said the first round had supported dozens of projects across the district.
“Through the first round of funding, we’ve supported 31 projects, including helping to refurbish five rural village halls, as well as a range of projects and events helping communities connect.
“These include supporting carers, improving mental health, and tackling poverty, making a real difference to residents across East Devon.
“I encourage voluntary groups to submit applications, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this second round of funding will have.”
The first round of funding, covering 2025-26, distributed £85,546 to community projects.
The council said the funding supported a range of initiatives, including improvements to rural village halls and projects aimed at helping communities connect.
Voluntary and community organisations interested in applying can find application forms, guidance and frequently asked questions through East Devon District Council’s Community Grant Fund.
Applications must be submitted by 5.00pm on Monday, 26th October 2026, unless the funding round closes earlier because of demand.
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