Funding for heritage projects

Funding for heritage projects is a complicated topic, not least as heritage projects can vary from community engagement projects to major capital works, and everything in between. There are many different sources of potential funding for heritage projects, and not one size fits all. Many funders are also over-subscribed and therefore applications can be highly competitive.

National Lottery Heritage Fund

The major national funder for heritage projects is the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Their website has a lot of useful advice about how to apply for their grants and what you need to consider before applying.

Weblink: The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Historic England

Other heritage organisations like Historic England also offer funding for certain types of heritage work. Their website also has lots of useful information and guidance: Grants Funding Care and Enjoyment of the Historic Environment | Historic England

The Architectural Heritage Fund

The Architectural Heritage Fund manages a searchable ‘Funding Finder’ database of organisations, including smaller trusts and others, that will fund conservation works and other heritage projects.

Explore the Funding Finder: The Architectural Heritage Fund

Wakefield Council Culture Grants

For smaller, community-based heritage projects, Wakefield Council Culture Grants may also be worth considering. These grants are open to constituted community groups, charities, CICs, other VCSEs, and individual creatives. Find more information on the Culture Grants website, including application guidance and information on who is eligible to apply: Culture Grants - Wakefield Council