Community micro-enterprises and not-for-profit organisations in Bedford Borough have three exciting new funding opportunities to support their growth and impact.

Social Value Fund

The Social Value Fund is offering grants of between £15,000 and £200,000 for capital projects that promote:

• Economic prosperity.
• Environmental improvements.
• Community wellbeing.
• Equality and diversity.

Projects must be linked to the A428 scheme, and all funded work must be completed by 31st March 2027.

The application deadline is 15^th January 2026.

Find out more and apply.

Community Value Fund 

The £250,000 Community Fund is available for not-for-profit groups or small voluntary and community organisations, with grants of up to £15,000 being available to help support the local community.

To be eligible for the Community Fund, you must ensure your group does one of the following:

• Benefits the local economy, skills, and employment, investing in opportunities to inspire future careers in STEM.
• Supports and connects communities – supporting community safety, health, and wellbeing issues.
• Enhances the environment – supporting the community to improve and enhance the natural environment.

Upcoming deadlines are 1^st February and 1^st August 2026.

Find out more and apply.

The Radcliffe Trust 

The Radcliffe Trust is now accepting applications for its music, heritage, and crafts project grants, with awards typically ranging from £2,500 to £7,500.

• Music scheme: Supports classical music performance, training, and education—including chamber music, composition, youth orchestras, and inclusive music-making for children and adults with special needs.
• Heritage and crafts scheme: Focuses on traditional crafts and conservation, training, capacity building, and therapeutic skill development.

There are two application windows: 1^st November – 31^st January for consideration in July, and 1^st May – 31^st July for consideration in December.

Find out more and apply.

These funds offer fantastic opportunities for local organisations to invest in creative, inclusive, and sustainable projects that benefit the Bedford Borough community.