Small grants fund

Unlocking the Power of Community Action with CAG Somerset’s Small Grants Fund

Are you part of a community group that’s been working hard to make a positive impact, but just need that little extra push to take things to the next level? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your composter, set up a rainwater collection system for your garden, or invest in new tools for a repair café, the CAG Somerset Small Grants Fund is here to help bring your ideas to life.

This £300 fund is designed specifically for CAG (Community Action Group) member groups, offering financial support for projects that can make a tangible difference in your community. It’s not a huge amount of money, but it’s often just enough to get the ball rolling and help your project thrive.

What is the Small Grants Fund and how can it help you?

The CAG Somerset Small Grants Fund is all about supporting community action groups that are working to create a more sustainable, waste-free future. If your group is a CAG Somerset member, this fund could provide the boost you need. The fund is there to help with practical needs, whether it’s buying new equipment, covering training costs, or simply providing the resources to help you do what you do best.

In previous rounds, the fund has been used for all kinds of impactful projects. For example, EatCary, a local food waste group, used the fund to purchase a new hotbin composter, enabling them to turn community food scraps into high-quality compost for their garden crops. Not only does this help reduce waste, but it also supports their efforts to grow fresh, local food for their community.

Supporting Repair Cafés and more

Repair cafés across Somerset have also benefited from the Small Grants Fund, with support for a range of tools and equipment that make their vital work easier and more effective. Over the past year, we’ve helped 12 repair cafes buy everything from PAT test machines to desk lamps for precision work, and even a travel iron for textile repairs. These small but meaningful investments help repair items that might otherwise end up in a landfill and empower volunteers to continue their important work.

The main aim of the Small Grants Fund is to provide the essential equipment and resources that help groups do what they do best—whether it’s repairing, composting, cooking, or anything else. By making sure groups have what they need to operate safely and efficiently, we help them make a bigger impact and continue their valuable community work.

Aiding Training and Development

Applicants for the Small Grants Fund have used it to fund training in areas like food hygiene or first aid. This has been especially valuable for groups like Chop and Chat and Community Kitchens, who work with surplus food to feed their communities. With the help of the fund, these groups have been able to ensure their operations are as safe, effective, and impactful as possible, while also training volunteers in essential food safety skills.

Why is this fund important?

At CAG Somerset, we believe in the power of community-led initiatives to create lasting change. Whether it’s repairing broken appliances, reducing food waste, or growing food in sustainable ways, these small but impactful projects have a huge ripple effect on the local environment and community. By offering this funding, we aim to make sure these groups have the tools, training, and support they need to continue their incredible work.

If you’re part of a community group that could use a little extra help, the CAG Somerset Small Grants Fund could be just the thing you’re looking for. It’s all about giving back to those who are doing the hard work on the ground, helping to make Somerset a more sustainable, resilient, and connected place for everyone.

The small grants fund is for CAG members only so if you think your community action group could be a good fit then fill in our membership application form and we will get in touch to discuss your needs. Membership is free!

---