Falkirk Council Grants

Falkirk Community Choices Phase 7

Falkirk Council

Community Choices is Falkirk Council's ward-based participatory budgeting programme. Phase 7 is now open. Charities and community groups can apply for up to £5,000 to deliver a project or activity in one of Falkirk's nine electoral wards. Local residents then decide which projects get funded through a public vote. Past winners have included youth and sports programmes, arts and cultural projects, mental health and wellbeing work, support for older people, and projects that help people connect and take pride in their area. The fund suits local groups with a clear idea that residents will want to back. You must submit your completed application by 9 November 2026. Public voting runs from 18 January 2027 to 12 February 2027. Anyone aged 16 or over living in the Falkirk Council area can vote for up to three projects in their own ward. Results will be announced on 18 March 2027, and winning projects start from April 2027. Getting through the application stage does not guarantee funding. To secure money, your project must win at least 10% of the eligible votes cast in its ward. Projects are then funded in order of votes until the ward budget runs out. Votes may be weighted in wards with smaller settlements so that small communities get a fair chance. Some projects cannot be funded, including improvements to public parks, play equipment, CCTV and projects that mainly benefit a school. If your project involves changes to land or buildings, think about the permissions you need and whether you can finish within the programme timeline before you apply. You should also show a commitment to Fair Work First principles, though you can ask for an exemption. Official source: https://www.falkirk.gov.uk/community-choices. Last checked by GrantMatch on 28 October 2026.