At Grand Central, we’re committed to improving the communities we serve. Last year, we supported six fabulous projects – Bishop Line CRP, Edshift, Horbury Community Centre, Boldon Girls FC, York Acorns and Friends of Brighouse. We’ve loved hearing about the brilliant things they’ve been doing - from delivering rail safety workshops to supporting domestic abuse practitioners and we’re so proud to have been able to help.
With our 2026 fund, we’re looking to support more community projects across our network, with grants available from £100 to £5000.
What we’re looking for
Once again, we’re looking to support projects that have a link to Grand Central in some way and will improve the local communities in one or more of the following areas:
- Environmental improvements
- Educational projects
- Sustainable travel
- Social inclusion
- Accessibility
Projects must:
- Be within five miles of the Grand Central rail station
- Have a link to the railway
- Provide detailed project plans
- Improve the local community
- Be completed within 2026
- Provide projects updates
Projects must NOT
- Require ongoing funding
Community Fund application form
Download and complete the application form below and email it to [email protected] by 2nd March 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
Pretty much anyone! We welcome applications from community groups, charities, not-for-profit organisations, customers, stakeholders and our colleagues at Grand Central Rail.
How do I apply?
Download and complete the application form on this page and email it to [email protected]. Applications will be open from 2nd February 2026 until 2nd March 2026.
How will I know if my application is successful?
If you are successful Grand Central will reach out to advise via the contact details provided. Unfortunately, we cannot provide feedback to all applicants.
I have multiple projects, can I put multiple applications in?
Yes! However, there is limited funding available. We will fairly distribute to projects across the Grand Central network. All projects will be considered, but you would be unlikely to be given more than one grant.
I was unsuccessful, can I reapply?
Yes! The community fund will re-open later in the year, so keep an eye out on the website for further details. If you were unsuccessful this time, you are able to resubmit your application. Ensure you include as much information as possible and can demonstrate the value of your project to the community.
The route to my station is poor, can I apply for improvements?
Yes, however any physical improvements require landowner approval as part of your application.
My project has nothing to do with the railway, can I still apply?
Whilst we encourage applicants that relate to sustainable travel, any community-based projects will be considered provided they meet the requirements set out above.
My local sports team needs sponsorship, can they apply?
Yes! All community groups within five miles of the Grand Central network can apply. Provide as much information about what the funding will be used for and what value it will have to the community. Providing background information about your group could help support your application. We particularly encourage community groups that have a connection to Grand Central to apply.
What sort of projects will you support?
You may have a local youth or charity project coming up. Or maybe you want to set up a new community group to tackle an issue in your area. Perhaps you’d like to see some improvements to an area to make it safer for the community. Providing it meets the geographical requirements and aligns with one of the categories listed your application will be considered.
How do you decide who is successful?
Grand Central has a community panel to decide which projects are successful based on pre-agreed guidelines. We will look to distribute funding fairly across the network and will look for projects that fit well with Grand Central. Those who can demonstrate the most value to the community will be favoured.