Small grant funding is available to support the creation of a garden, or a similar project such as an allotment, with a horticultural focus for the benefit of the local community.

In 2026, the National Garden Scheme (NGS) was pleased to announce awards of nearly £300,000 in funding for 118 community garden projects across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Application is now open for their 2027 grants.

Projects should bring people together and encourage sharing of gardening skills and knowledge.

Community groups (established with their own bank account) can apply for £1,500 to £5,000 to cover expenses such as:

• plants and containers
• materials for flower or vegetable beds and other hard landscaping
• greenhouses, polytunnels and sheds
• seating
• hand tools and certain garden power tools (eg strimmers)
• materials for providing refreshments.

Priority will be given to projects benefiting disadvantaged groups and promoting wellbeing.

Questions about the funding or applying can be emailed to the scheme’s Administrator, Vince Hagan.

The closing date for this funding round is 12 noon on Friday 30 October 2026 – with only the first 300 submissions accepted

All applications will be assessed and successful groups will be notified in April 2027.

For full guidance and details on the funding, visit the National Garden Scheme website.