Community groups and young people across the West Midlands can now apply for grants to fund environmentally-friendly initiatives, with a total of £100,000 available through two separate funding streams launched by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
The Circular Economy Call to Action Fund offers grants of up to £5,000 to community organisations, while a dedicated Youth Climate Action Fund—established in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies—provides grants between £1,000 and £2,500 for applicants aged 15 to 24. According to the funding portal, youth-led projects must be led by at least two people within the eligible age range.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker expressed his backing for the initiative, saying:
"There are so many brilliant things happening in our communities to make them greener, healthier and more resilient. From planting trees and encouraging people to walk and cycle, to repairing rather than throwing things away. These may seem like small things but they are making a big difference to people's lives and helping to create a real sense of pride in these neighbourhoods. I'm all for that, so I'm getting behind these community groups with the funding and expertise they need to get more great ideas off the ground and widen their impact."
What types of projects are eligible?
Successful applications must focus on one of three environmental priorities: improving air quality, helping communities adapt to climate change, or restoring nature. The funding is available to groups operating across Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Walsall, Dudley, Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry.
The WMCA's broader environmental work includes a Repair, Reuse and Remake support hub as part of its Community Environment Network, reflecting a region-wide commitment to circular economy principles. The authority has already funded 27 projects through its Community Environment Fund, including five focused specifically on reducing waste, repurposing materials and repairing items rather than discarding them.
How can groups apply?
Interested organisations and young people can request an information pack and application form by emailing environment@wmca.org.uk. According to the official funding guidance, the Youth Climate Action Fund application deadline is 25 September 2026 at 5pm, giving applicants a defined window to submit their proposals.
The funding call is now live on the WMCA's website, with the authority confirming on 14 September 2026 that the £100,000 fund for repair, reuse and climate action projects is open for applications.
What happens next?
Groups and young people must submit applications by the 25 September 2026 deadline. Successful applicants will receive funding to deliver their environmental projects across the seven local authority areas within the WMCA region.
Key Facts
- Two funding streams available: up to £5,000 for community groups and £1,000–£2,500 for youth-led projects
- Youth Climate Action Fund projects must be led by at least two people aged 15 to 24
- Applications close on 25 September 2026 at 5pm; contact environment@wmca.org.uk for application packs
- Projects must focus on air quality, climate adaptation or nature restoration across seven West Midlands councils
- The WMCA has already funded 27 community environmental projects, including initiatives on waste reduction and repair
