Small & Vital Fund

Small & Vital offers up to £1,000 for small not-for-profit groups working in Berkshire. Applications are accepted throughout the year, subject to funds being available. The programme page sets an annual income limit of £10,000 or less and requires at least 12 months of operation and financial records. Email the grants team to check eligibility and request the application form. Not-for-profit charities, CIOs, CICs and constituted voluntary or community groups working in Berkshire for local benefit. Organisations must have operated for at least 12 months, provide 12 months of financial records, have a governing document and board or committee, and hold a bank account with two unrelated signatories. Equality and diversity policies are required, with safeguarding policies where relevant. Individuals, retrospective costs and projects primarily outside Berkshire are excluded. Applicants must be up to date with earlier grant reports. General restrictions include more than 12 months of unrestricted reserves, annual operating budgets above £2 million, political or religious campaigning, medical research and major capital projects. For Small & Vital, annual income must be £10,000 or less under the programme-specific guidance. The general eligibility page describes a budget under £10,000, so organisations at the boundary should confirm eligibility with the grants team. Email grants@berkshirecf.org to confirm eligibility and obtain the online form. Prepare your constitution, latest accounts, bank statement, equality and diversity policy and safeguarding policy where relevant. First-time applicants are encouraged to include a recommendation from an organisation familiar with their work. Funding is limited and an application does not guarantee an award.