Make a Difference Grants 2026

Funding local groups making a positive difference in Bridgend County Borough

Do you have an idea, project or activity that helps your community thrive?

BAVO’s Make A Difference Grant Programme is here to support community and voluntary groups that are creating positive change across Bridgend County Borough. With a total funding pot of £100,000 available over three rounds in 2026-27, we’re proud to invest in local organisations that bring people together, improve wellbeing, strengthen communities and make a real difference to local residents.

Whether you’re planning a community event, purchasing equipment, delivering training, supporting volunteers or running an environmental project, we encourage you to apply.

How much can you apply for?

Micro Grants

Up to £500

Perfect for smaller projects, events, activities or one-off purchases that can make an immediate impact in your community.

Main Grant

Up to £3,000

For larger projects and activities that deliver clear benefits to people and communities across Bridgend County Borough.

Please note that organisations may submit one application within any 12-month period.

Who can apply?

Applications are welcome from constituted voluntary and community organisations that:

• Are based in Bridgend County Borough
• Deliver activities that benefit Bridgend residents
• Are BAVO members, or are eligible for and have applied for membership
• Have no outstanding balances or overdue grant returns with BAVO

Unfortunately, applications cannot be accepted from:

• Private businesses
• Profit-making organisations
• Statutory bodies, including local authorities, schools, and town or community councils
• Organisations or projects that do not benefit Bridgend County Borough residents

What can the funding support?

We’re keen to support a wide variety of projects that improve life in our communities.

Funding can contribute towards:

• Community projects and activities
• Cultural, environmental and green initiatives
• Equipment and resources
• Volunteer expenses
• Training and development
• Events and community gatherings
• Room hire and venue costs
• Project delivery costs
• Repairs and maintenance
• Energy costs

For main grants, funding may also contribute towards staffing and a limited proportion of organisational overheads where appropriate.

A few things to keep in mind

• Food and refreshments are capped at £100.
• Funding cannot be awarded retrospectively for activities that have already taken place.
• Grants must be spent within 12 months of receiving the award.
• Unspent funds must be returned to BAVO.
• Successful organisations will be asked to provide monitoring information and share the impact of their project.

Application deadline

Apply by 12 noon on 6 October 2026

Please ensure your application form and all supporting documents are submitted before the deadline. Applications that are incomplete or missing information cannot be considered.

The assessment panel expects to meet in October 2026, with applicants notified of the outcome by the end of the month.

Need help with your application?

Please find the guidance notes here.

We’re here to help.

If you’d like advice before applying or have any questions about the programme, please get in touch:

📧 grantsadmin@bavo.org.uk
📞 01656 810400

Ready to make a difference?

We know the incredible impact local groups have on communities across Bridgend County Borough. If your organisation is helping people connect, supporting wellbeing, protecting the environment or creating opportunities for local residents, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and help make an even bigger difference in your community.

Apply for ‘Micro grant’

Apply for ‘Main Grant’