Youth Matters Fund

The Youth Matters Fund is a £400 million+ programme run by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It aims to improve youth services in underserved areas across England. DCMS is looking for a single organisation or consortium to lead the entire programme. The successful applicant will manage the grant money and oversee large-scale youth service delivery. The goal is better quality youth services, more sustainable facilities, and stronger local partnerships. The funding range is £300 million to £416.8 million. The deadline to apply is 22 August 2026.

This is for a single large organisation or a consortium of organisations able to manage a programme worth hundreds of millions of pounds. You must be able to lead national-scale youth service delivery across England. It is not for individual local charities or small businesses applying for their own projects.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is seeking a single grant recipient (or consortium) to lead the Youth Matters Fund (YMF). This £400 million+ programme is committed to delivering significant, long-term change in youth provision across underserved areas in England. The YMF aims to achieve rapid improvements in the quality and level of youth services, long-term sustainability of youth sector facilities, and meaningful local partnerships that drive sector growth. The successful recipient (single or consortium) will lead the programme, manage the grant allocation, and oversee large-scale youth service delivery.

DCMS is seeking a single grant recipient or consortium to apply for this fund. You should apply before the deadline of 22 August 2026. Check the DCMS website for full application details and any required documentation.