Community groups invited to apply for grants of up to £5,000
- Love Ballymena
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Pictured are representatives from organisations that received funding through the first round of the Community Awards 2026 with Jenni Barkley, Communications and Community Engagement Manager at Belfast Harbour.
Grassroots organisations are being offered the chance to secure grants of up to £5,000 as the second round of Belfast Harbour’s 2026 Community Awards opens for applications.
Groups across Belfast and beyond can apply, with funding available for projects that strengthen communities, support the environment, develop skills and employability, or create opportunities for local people.
£110,000 available during 2026
A total of £110,000 is being made available through the Community Awards programme this year, with the latest funding round following £50,000 in grants awarded to 15 organisations during the first round of 2026.
The Community Awards form part of Belfast Harbour’s wider Community Fund Programme, through which £350,000 is being invested in community and charity initiatives during 2026.
For grassroots organisations considering new projects or looking for support to expand existing work, individual grants of up to £5,000 are available.
More than 150 projects supported
Belfast Harbour launched its Community Awards scheme in 2021 and says more than 150 projects have since received support.
Previous recipients have included sports clubs and community gardens, initiatives working with people with disabilities, and arts and theatre programmes providing opportunities for young people.
Projects supported through the awards are focused around strengthening communities, championing the environment, developing employability and skills, and helping local people to thrive.
How to apply
Organisations interested in the second round can find application details on the Belfast Harbour Community Awards webpage or contact the awards team by email at:
Applications must be submitted by Friday 25 September 2026.
With grants of up to £5,000 available, eligible grassroots organisations now have just under four weeks to consider their projects and submit an application before the September deadline.
