Crowdfund Cotswold opens new round of funding for local projects
Cotswold District Council is calling on residents and community groups for exciting locally led ideas as the next round of Crowdfund Cotswold opens for applications.
Since its launch in 2021, Crowdfund Cotswold has helped bring a wide range of community projects to life - from cricket clubs and community cinemas to art classes and skateparks. Now entering its fourth year, the scheme has supported over £1 million worth of local initiatives across the district.
The latest round of funding is now open, and the Council is encouraging individuals, groups, and organisations to get involved and share their ideas for projects that will benefit their local communities. The deadline to apply is 24 September 2025.
One of the most recent success stories is the Churn Project’s Community Shed - a welcoming space designed to tackle social isolation and support mental wellbeing. Thanks to Crowdfund Cotswold, the shed was upgraded with new facilities and now hosts regular workshops on DIY skills, mental health awareness, and personal development.
On a recent visit, Cllr Claire Bloomer, Cabinet Member for Communities, met with participants Andy and Steve to hear how the project has made a difference in their lives.
Andy shared: “I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years ago and I was just sat at home doing nothing - my mental health was beginning to get really bad. Coming to the Community Shed was the best thing I’ve ever done.”
Steve added: “I was really down, but coming here - even if you don’t make anything and just come for a talk or a cup of coffee - it’s wonderful. You find a lot of other people who have been through what you are going through.”
Cllr Bloomer said: “Since we launched Crowdfund Cotswold, we’ve seen some truly inspiring projects come to life across the district. With this new round of funding, we’re excited to see what ideas our communities will bring forward.”
How to Get Involved
Crowdfund Cotswold projects need to be local and serve a community purpose. Projects must be in the UK and can be led by any type of organisation or individual, you do not have to be a charity.
If you are interested in raising funds for your own ideas you can get started today by visiting the Crowdfund Cotswold website and creating your own project page.
People and organisations can pledge as little as £2 towards a project. To view all the active projects in the Cotswolds, please visit the Crowdfund Cotswold project page: Explore Projects (spacehive.com)