Main Grants

Programme Suspension

Due to a phenomenal demand for funding the Local Food programme is currently suspended to all NEW first stage applications. For further details please visit our Suspension FAQs page.

Grant Size

Between £10,001 to £300,000 is awarded for Main Grants.

What makes a successful application?

We consider the following criteria in more depth than the Small Grants:

  • the project responds to a clearly identified need and fits in with local, regional, or national strategies
  • there is community involvement, consultation and benefit in all aspects of the project
  • the project demonstrates good and effective partnership working
  • the project addresses disadvantage
  • the project meets at least two of the five Local Food themes
  • the project displays a good level of social, economic and environmental sustainability
  • the organisation is well managed and financially sound
  • the project displays good budget management, value for money, and has realistic income projections
  • the project will be monitored and evaluated against the identified outcomes and milestones

Capital and Revenue

For Small and Main Grants, up to 80% of the grant can be used for capital costs but at least 20% must be used for revenue.


Projects already in action

A variety of inspiring projects have already been awarded funding through the Main Grants scheme.

Visit our project pages to find out more.