I want to fund activities, initiatives and projects that can make a real difference to the quality of life for some of our communities in Leicester, particularly underserved communities that are usually considered “hard to reach” or “difficult to engage”. I want to support innovative projects, addressing a genuine need that isn't being met in other ways.

I'd like to  hear from those who can help achieve the vision of a city with a sense of shared identity, common purpose and civic responsibility; that can help refresh and renew the Council's relations with the Voluntary and Community Sector; projects that can help make Leicester a welcoming and accepting place for new and emerging communities and enable flexible, imaginative and innovative responses to challenges and opportunities facing the Council, citizens and communities of Leicester.

Individuals are not eligible for this fund but can partner with an organisation to be eligible. 

Please note 
- In general food banks are not a good fit for the programme as there are other departments within the council where more relevant support and funding can be offered. 

- Projects for standalone statues are not eligible for the fund but if there are additional community engagement elements such as workshops with local school children explaining the importance of the statute, then the Community Engagement fund could be relevant.

I've set up the Community Engagement Fund to support innovative projects that address the general aims of the Public Sector Equality Duty in relation to the protected characteristics by:

•  advancing equality of opportunity;
• eliminating discrimination, victimisation and harassment;
• fostering good relations between communities and groups.

If you can demonstrate how your idea isn't being met in any other way and how it will address these three outcomes in your application, you may be eligible for support from this fund.

Crowdfund Leicester runds two funding rounds a year, in the Spring and in the Autumn.

See the About page of Crowdfund Leicester for a full breakdown of the process and the key dates to be aware of. 

Basic process:

• Complete expression of interest form so we can provide you with one-on-one support
• Create an online project page with Spacehive
• Pitch to relevant funds such as the Mayor's Engagement Fund
• Submit project for verification (costs and permissions for the project are checked)
• Start your crowdfunding campaign

Pledges will only be made to projects that will be delivered by a constituted organisation. If you are an individual and have an idea you will need to join or form an organisation to develop and share your proposal. Help can be provided with this where necessary. 

Types of suitable organisations can include: 

• Charitable incorporated organisation; 
• Community interest company; 
• Company limited by guarantee;
• Registered charity; 
• Trust; 
• Unincorporated association.

The organisation will be required to:

• Enter into a contractual agreement with Leicester City Council;
• Provide bank details; 
• Provide charity or company number, if relevant;  
• Deliver the project. 

* General note

Food Banks - In general food banks are not a good fit for the programme as there are other departments within the council where more relevant support and funding can be offered. Please email crowdfundleicester@leicester.gov.uk to be put in contact with them. 

Statutes - Projects for standalone statutes are not eligible for the fund but if there are additional community
engagement elements such as workshops with local school children explaining the importance of
the statute, then the Community Engagement fund could be relevant.

Any questions or concerns, complete an expression of interest form and tell us a little more about your project so we can support you with the next steps.