Wild About Devon – Community Wildlife Grant Scheme 2026
We are excited to launch the 2026 Wild About Devon Community Wildlife Grants Scheme!
This year, the grants are being supported by the Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy, and so this has been incorporated into the awarding criteria.
We're pleased to announce that we have an increased total fund of £10,000 for 2026, meaning we can offer individual grants of up to £500.
Who do we fund?
We consider applications from community groups across the whole of Devon (including Plymouth). This includes not- -for-profit clubs, registered charities, CICs, Parish and Town Councils, church groups, schools and PTFAs. Previous applicants may apply.
What do we fund?
We will consider applications that demonstrate community action for nature, projects that clearly demonstrate a benefit to local wildlife and demonstrate community involvement or benefit. We can fund whole projects or a specific element of a larger project. Applications will need to demonstrate a planned budget (showing how shortfalls will be met) and a clear timeline for delivering the project (by April 2027).
What we don’t fund:
- Non-native planting, including bulbs (unless you have a very clear reason, like adapting to climate change!)
- Poorly-sourced wildflower seeds or trees (some retail wildflower packs can be inappropriate for Devon habitats, so do double check)
- Tree planting projects – these are adequately supported by numerous organisations across Devon. If you are planning to plant trees, hedgerows, orchards please apply elsewhere first, before applying to us
- Purely garden projects without obvious wildlife benefit
- Beekeeping projects
- School trips (although we are happy to support wildlife projects in schools)
writing a successful application
Please read our application guidelines here
Please be aware we are always oversubscribed and are unable to support all applications, even if they meet our criteria. Find information about how to apply effectively below, as well as further information on planning and accessing support for your project.
- Tell us about your project, including why it’s needed, what you’ll be doing, and how you’ll be following it up in the future
- Tell us how it helps nature – explain which habitats or species will benefit, and why your chosen project is the best option for your local patch.
- Take a good look at the Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy - how does your project support it?
- Tell us how it engages people – will they be involved in delivery, will it help them access nature, or understand more?
- Keep your answers clear and concise and stick to the word count – we’re very happy with bullet points!
- Budget – we’re happy to fund an element of a larger project so you can tell us your total project cost and then break down what you’re asking us for
- Give us some details, for example where you’ll be sourcing materials, who is advising you, what skills you have etc
Please contact info@devoncommunities.org.uk with any queries.
Read about our successful 2025-6 grant recipients in our final report here!
