Grant Programmes
We offer a range of funding programmes to support projects that make a difference across the Isle of Man. Each grant is designed to help local communities thrive, from grassroots ideas to larger-scale initiatives.
Our funding is provided in partnership with the National Lottery Community Fund (for Community Awards and Thematic Funding), or via the Isle of Man Government Treasury (for the Dormant Assets programme and Smaller Grants).
Community Award
Community Awards offer grants between £2,501 and £50,000 to support projects that improve local communities and the lives of people most in need.
We fund projects that build skills, boost health, protect the environment, and bring people together. This programme supports a wide range of activities and organisations.
At-a-glance
- £2,501 – £50,000
- Apply 4+ months before the project
- 10 weeks processing
Who can apply?
You can apply if you are a community group, voluntary or not-for-profit organisation, parish or town council, school, club, or association. You do not need to be a registered charity to apply.
Your organisation must have:
A bank account based on the Isle of Man that requires at least two unrelated people who do not live at the same address to sign each payment or withdrawal.
You must be able to use the grant within one year of the award.
What can you apply for?
We fund activities that benefit the community, such as:
- Events, activities, or performances
- New equipment or materials
- Training courses
- Pilot projects or new group start-ups
- Special repairs or conservation work
- Volunteer expenses, sessional worker costs, or
professional fees
Please read the guidance notes carefully as we have clear rules on what can and can’t be funded.
Thematic Fund
The Thematic Fund is an annual funding programme that focuses on a different theme each year, chosen to address the most pressing issues facing the Isle of Man community at that time.
For 2024, the theme was Space to Thrive, focusing on projects that create accessible, welcoming spaces and encourage inclusive community involvement. The fund supports initiatives that take a preventative approach to improving health and wellbeing.
All applicants must also consider environmental sustainability in their projects, even if it is not their main focus.
At-a-glance
- £2,501 - £25,000
- Apply 4+ months before the project
- 10 weeks processing
Who can apply?
You can apply if you are a community group, voluntary or not-for-profit organisation, parish or town council, school, club, or association. You do not need to be a registered charity to apply.
Your organisation must have:
A bank account based on the Isle of Man that requires at least two unrelated people who do not live at the same address to sign each payment or withdrawal.
You must be able to use the grant within one year of the award.
What can you apply for?
We fund activities that benefit the community, such as:
- Events, activities, or performances
- New equipment or materials
- Training courses
- Pilot projects or new group start-ups
- Special repairs or conservation work
- Volunteer expenses, sessional worker costs, or
professional fees
Please read the guidance notes carefully as we have clear rules on what can and can’t be funded.
Dormant Asset Fund
The Dormant Assets Fund provides grants of up to £75,000 to support community and not-for-profit organisations on the Isle of Man.
It aims to help groups prepare for future challenges by increasing financial resilience, building skills and capacity, and strengthening their ability to deliver lasting impact for the community.
At-a-glance
- Up to £75,000
- Apply 4+ months before the project
- 10 weeks processing
Who can apply?
You can apply if you are a community group, voluntary or not-for-profit organisation, parish or town council, school, club, or association. You do not need to be a registered charity to apply.
Your organisation must have:
A bank account based on the Isle of Man that requires at least two unrelated people who do not live at the same address to sign each payment or withdrawal.
You must be able to use the grant within one year of the award.
What can you apply for?
We fund activities that benefit the community, such as:
- Events, activities, or performances
- New equipment or materials
- Training courses
- Pilot projects or new group start-ups
- Special repairs or conservation work
- Volunteer expenses, sessional worker costs, or
professional fees
Please read the guidance notes carefully as we have clear rules on what can and can’t be funded.
Smaller Grants
Smaller Grants provide funding between £300 and £2,500 to support local community projects. This is a ‘light touch’ programme with a simple application process.
At-a-glance
- £300 - £2,500
- Apply 3+ months before the project
- 6-8 weeks processing
Who can apply?
You can apply if you are a community group, voluntary or not-for-profit organisation, parish or town council, school, club, or association. You do not need to be a registered charity to apply.
Your organisation must have:
A bank account based on the Isle of Man that requires at least two unrelated people who do not live at the same address to sign each payment or withdrawal.
You must be able to use the grant within one year of the award.
What can you apply for?
We fund activities that benefit the community, such as:
- Events, activities, or performances
- New equipment or materials
- Training courses
- Pilot projects or new group start-ups
- Special repairs or conservation work
- Volunteer expenses, sessional worker costs, or
professional fees
Please read the guidance notes carefully as we have clear rules on what can and can’t be funded.