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Funding available to help rural community groups grow stronger and work smarter

Thursday, 4 December 2025 10:43

Share Skipton hired a new Volunteer Coordinator to develop their servied. Now, Community groups across North Yorkshire are being invited to apply for an Organisational Development Grant from Two Ridings Community Foundation.

Unlike funding for projects or activities, this grant supports groups to strengthen how they work—improving systems, governance, leadership, and long-term sustainability.

The fund is open to groups tackling local priorities such as poverty, health and wellbeing, isolation, community cohesion, inequalities, or economic development.

Successful applicants will show how the grant will make a lasting difference, whether by boosting organisational capacity, developing leadership, securing financial stability, or building stronger partnerships.

Previous grants have made a real impact in Skipton.

For example, Share Skipton hired a Volunteer Coordinator who recruited more volunteers, developed mentoring and training systems, and built a stronger, inclusive volunteer culture.

“It’s inspiring to see people come together with a shared purpose,”

said the coordinator.

The grant can support a wide range of organisational improvements, including:

Business planning and income diversification
Leadership or trustee development
Systems to monitor and measure impact
Fundraising strategy development
Marketing and communications
New ways to generate income
Software or tools to improve efficiency
Exploring collaboration or shared services

This is a chance for community groups to build stronger foundations and ensure they can continue delivering vital support for years to come.

Applications are now open with a deadline of 12 noon on Wednesday 14th January 2026

For an informal chat about this funding, call the Grants team at Two Ridings on 01904 929500

Groups ready to work differently and strengthen their future are encouraged to apply.

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