Small Eco Awards: Helping Communities Take Action for Nature and the Environment

Communities across Wales are being invited to play their part in tackling the climate and nature emergency through the Small Eco Awards programme from The National Lottery Community Fund. With grants ranging from £300 to £20,000 available, the programme is designed to support local projects that put environmental sustainability at the heart of what they do.

Whether it's creating greener neighbourhoods, helping people reconnect with nature, reducing pollution, or finding practical ways to respond to environmental challenges, the fund recognises that local communities are often best placed to make a real difference. While the climate and nature emergency can feel overwhelming, this programme is built on the idea that small-scale, community-led action can have a significant impact.

The funding is open to community-led organisations in Wales and supports projects that help people connect with and care for nature, improve the environment, or tackle pollution in their local area. Importantly, environmental sustainability must be the main focus of the project.

Organisations can seek support for a wide range of activities. This could include launching a new initiative, developing an existing environmental project, helping communities adapt to changing environmental conditions, or running a one-off event that creates a clear environmental benefit. The fund is flexible and recognises that meaningful environmental action can take many forms, provided it delivers positive outcomes for people and the planet.

For community groups already working to improve local green spaces, encourage biodiversity, reduce waste, promote reuse and repair, support community growing, or raise awareness about environmental issues, the Small Eco Awards could provide the boost needed to turn ideas into action. The programme is particularly interested in projects that bring people together around environmental goals and create lasting benefits within local communities.

Applications are currently open, and organisations can apply for grants between £300 and £20,000. Funding decisions are normally made within 12 weeks, helping groups move forward with their plans without lengthy delays.

Funding at a Glance

• Grants from £300 to £20,000

• Open to community-led organisations in Wales

• Projects must have environmental sustainability as their primary aim

• Funding decisions typically made within 12 weeks

• Supports both new and existing projects

• Can fund activities that help people connect with nature, improve the environment, or tackle pollution in their communities

Need Support with an Application?

If your group is considering applying to the Small Eco Awards programme and would like support to develop an idea, check eligibility, or strengthen an application, complete the enquiry form below and a local GAVO Development Officer will be in touch to discuss how we can help.