Volunteering Wales Strategic Grant Opens for 2025–28 with Focus on Transforming Volunteering Across the Nation

A major funding opportunity has opened for organisations looking to strengthen and innovate within Wales’ volunteering sector. The Volunteering Wales Strategic Grant (VWSG)—now launching its second round for 2025–28—aims to support a small number of ambitious, strategic projects that can improve volunteering at scale across the country.

The grant, offering awards between £50,000 and £100,000 for projects lasting up to 18 months, is designed to help organisations test new ideas, grow proven models, and build long‑term infrastructure for volunteering. Priority will be given to initiatives working in key areas such as health and social care, youth and education, climate and environment, Welsh language and community development, and arts, culture and sport.

This round of funding is closely tied to Wales’ new long-term vision for volunteering, introduced in 2025. Applicants are expected to use the framework’s seven “Enablers”—which include determined leadership, strong evidence-based planning, culturally appropriate approaches, and meaningful youth engagement to design and deliver their proposals. A Planning Matrix, mapping where each project currently sits against these enablers, must also accompany each application.

To be eligible, organisations must have an annual income of more than £250,000, be incorporated for at least two years, and have engaged with a WCVA or Welsh Government officer before applying. Applicants are also required to provide relevant policies, financial documents, and letters of support from partners or strategic bodies.

The application process takes place in two stages. All submissions will first be checked against eligibility criteria, before being assessed in detail by the Volunteering Wales Panel, which includes members of WCVA’s Board and representatives from the wider volunteering community.

The scheme officially launched on 2 March 2026, with applications closing on 22 May 2026. Successful organisations will be notified in July, with projects expected to start between 1 August and 1 October 2026.

The fund is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of volunteering in Wales, encouraging organisations to think strategically, collaborate more meaningfully, and contribute to a national movement that sees volunteering as an integral part of Welsh life.

Complete the short form below to receive further information about the grant.