Funding Advice
Funding & Support for Charities, Voluntary Groups & Communities in Cumbria
Welcome to the funding resource hub of the Lieutenancy Office. We are committed to supporting the invaluable work being done across Cumbria by community groups, voluntary organisations and local charities. This page is designed to help you access the right funding streams, support networks and guidance so your projects can thrive and have maximum impact.
Why this page?
As part of our mission to promote service, community strength and the voluntary sector across Cumbria, we aim to make funding & support information accessible and straightforward. Whether you’re looking to launch a new initiative, refurbish a community space, secure running-costs funding or simply find advice - start here.
What you’ll find here
To keep things clear and navigable, we have grouped the resources into three main categories:
1. Grant-funding programmes
In this section you’ll find major funders active across Cumbria such as the Cumbria Community Foundation, specific trusts and local funds aimed at community, voluntary & social enterprise (VCSE) organisations.
For example, through Cumbria CVS you can register to use their online funding portal which allows you to filter funds by category, geographic area and applicability. Cumbria CVS
2. Capital & asset-based funding
Some funds in Cumbria focus specifically on capital, asset or infrastructure investment (for example, buildings, equipment or major project works). Others are designed for smaller groups who may need “micro-grants”. Through Cumbria CVS you’ll find examples such as the Eric Wright Charitable Trust small-grants scheme (up to £1,000) for local community groups. Cumbria CVS
3. Support, advice & network links
Funding isn’t just about money - the right support and advice makes a big difference. The Cumbria CVS site shows that they provide dedicated funding officer support:
- helping you identify sources of funding relevant to your project. Cumbria CVS
- advising on what makes a strong application and reading over drafts. Cumbria CVS
- helping explore partnerships and connect with other organisations. Cumbria CVS
How to use this page
- Browse the funder lists below and click through each link to review eligibility, deadlines and guidance notes.
- Check whether the funding is for capital/one-off costs (e.g., building, equipment, infrastructure) or for revenue/running costs - many funds will have a preference or restriction.
- If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to our office (via the Lieutenancy) and we’ll aim to guide you to the most relevant funding or support route.
- Ensure your group is “funding-ready”: many organisations require up-to-date governance (e.g., constitution, bank account, committee structure), especially for new applicants. For example, Cumbria CVS advise organisations to ask “Are you fit to be funded?” before applying. Cumbria CVS
Need help from the Lieutenancy Office?
We’re here to assist. Whether you are:
- developing a new project idea
- looking to secure seed-funding or capital investment
- or simply checking whether your idea fits a particular fund -
please feel free to contact our team. We can help you navigate options, clarify eligibility criteria and connect you with partner organisations or funders where appropriate.
Ready to explore further?
Scroll down for a curated list of recommended funding programmes, support organisations and links specific to Cumbria — including portals, micro-grant opportunities and training events.
| Fund Name | Typical Grant Size | Eligibility Summary | Key Notes / Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cumbria CVS Funding Portal | Various (micro to mid-size) | Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations in Cumbria (turnover under £1 m) working within the county. Cumbria CVS | Rolling through portal; you must register via the portal. Cumbria CVS |
| Cumbria Community Foundation (CCF) Grant Programmes | Varies (small micro-grants up to larger grants) | Grass-roots community groups, charities in Cumbria; wide variety of funds addressing community need. cumbriafoundation.org | Check CCF website for current funds and deadlines. |
| Westmorland & Furness Council Community Funds | Not always specified (e.g., VCFS infrastructure fund) | Community, voluntary and faith sector organisations in the Westmorland & Furness area of Cumbria; capital and revenue projects. Westmorland and Furness Council | Example: Infrastructure funding deadline 30 Nov 2025. Westmorland and Furness Council |
| Copeland Community Fund + other local trusts (via Cumbria Action toolkit) | Small to medium (£100 to £1,500 etc) | Projects in specified geographic area (e.g., parts of Cumbria) focusing on community benefit, grassroots groups. Action with Communities in Cumbria | Rolling applications for many; check individual trust. |
| Team Barrow – Strategic Priorities Fund | ~£700,000 annually for next 4 years in Barrow area. Barrow Rising | Voluntary/community groups in Barrow (Cumbria) aligning with priorities: children & families, health & wellbeing, training & volunteering, early intervention. Barrow Rising | Expression of Interest by 12pm on 20 Oct 2025 (example). Barrow Rising |
Notes & Tips
- For many of these programmes, capital or one-off project costs (equipment, building works, refurbishment) are eligible, while ongoing running costs may not be. Example: Cumbrian County Council’s grants guidelines. cumbria.gov.uk
- Make sure your organisation is “funding-ready”: constituted group, bank account, governance/policies. Cumbria CVS+1
- Deadlines vary: some rolling, others fixed. Always check funder’s website.
- Some funds ask for clear alignment with local strategic priorities (e.g., local area plans). cumbria.gov.uk+1