Funding-routes library — CIC Builder

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Funding-routes library

Examples of funding routes

A simple guide to the kinds of funding new CICs and grassroots projects can explore. Not exhaustive.

First project grants

Small community grants

Best for: Testing a short pilot in your local area.
Typical stage: Idea / pilot
What you need before applying: Clear problem, project outline, basic budget, safeguarding awareness.
Risk level: low
Example evidence needed: Attendance, feedback, photos with consent, simple outcomes.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Small amounts, fast decisions, designed for grassroots delivery.

Local authority/community funds

Local authority / community fund

Best for: Projects aligned with council priorities (youth, health, prevention).
Typical stage: Pilot / early delivery
What you need before applying: Local need evidence, safeguarding, insurance, simple monitoring plan.
Risk level: low
Example evidence needed: Outputs, outcomes, postcodes reached, partner letters of support.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Builds local credibility and opens the door to bigger council work.

National Lottery Awards for All

Best for: Community projects up to a modest size, run by small groups.
Typical stage: Pilot / first 12 months
What you need before applying: Clear who-benefits, simple budget, governance, bank account.
Risk level: low
Example evidence needed: Reporting on people reached, outcomes, learning.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Designed for grassroots and new organisations.

Sports and physical activity funds

Best for: Movement-based prevention, inclusion or community fitness.
Typical stage: Pilot / scaling
What you need before applying: Qualified coaches, safeguarding, risk assessments, insurance.
Risk level: low
Example evidence needed: Attendance, wellbeing changes, participation by group.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Aligns with the prevention and activity angle of many CIC missions.

Youth violence prevention funds

Best for: Interventions reducing risk, exclusion or harm for young people.
Typical stage: Pilot / scaling with partners
What you need before applying: Clear theory of change, safeguarding, partnership routes.
Risk level: medium
Example evidence needed: Engagement, outcomes vs risk indicators, partner referrals.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Aligned with national prevention priorities.

Rehabilitation/criminal justice grants

Rehabilitation / criminal justice grants

Best for: Reducing reoffending and supporting people leaving prison.
Typical stage: Pilot / scaling
What you need before applying: Trauma-aware practice, safeguarding, partner pathways.
Risk level: medium
Example evidence needed: Engagement, progression outcomes, partner feedback.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Lived experience can strengthen credibility — combined with structure.

Corporate sponsorship

Best for: Specific projects or community moments a brand wants to back.
Typical stage: Pilot / repeat partnership
What you need before applying: A clear offer for the sponsor (impact, story, visibility).
Risk level: low
Example evidence needed: Reach, story, photos with consent, sponsor-facing report.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Can complement grant funding without changing your mission.

Crowdfunding

Best for: Visible community projects with a clear ask and story.
Typical stage: Pilot
What you need before applying: Strong story, target amount, simple plan, network you can mobilise.
Risk level: low
Example evidence needed: Updates to backers, photos with consent, simple outcomes.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Tests demand and builds an early community of supporters.

Trading income

Best for: Paid services (workshops, sessions, contracts) inside your mission.
Typical stage: Early delivery onwards
What you need before applying: Pricing, terms, invoices, safeguarding, basic accounts.
Risk level: medium
Example evidence needed: Income vs cost, client feedback, repeat business.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Reduces reliance on grants and proves a sustainable model.

Social investment

Best for: Organisations with traction that can repay or share returns.
Typical stage: Established delivery
What you need before applying: Accounts, income history, repayment ability, risk awareness.
Risk level: higher
Example evidence needed: Financial reporting, impact reporting, governance.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Useful for scaling, not for starting. Only when you understand risk.

Contracts/commissioning

Contracts / commissioning

Best for: Delivering specified outcomes for councils, NHS, MoJ or partners.
Typical stage: Established delivery
What you need before applying: Track record, policies, insurance, monitoring, due diligence.
Risk level: higher
Example evidence needed: Outcome reporting against KPIs, financial reporting.
Why it might fit a new CIC: Larger, more sustainable income — needs delivery maturity.

Educational examples of funding routes only — we do not promise or maintain live deadlines. Always check the funder's own website before applying. Last reviewed: 18 May 2026.