The fund provides an opportunity for organisations of all sizes to secure funding for projects that could make a real difference to people and communities across Stevenage.

Funding could be used for a wide range of projects including:

• running activities, 
• events or community programmes,
• buying equipment and resources,
• improving community facilities or spaces,
• supporting children and young people,
• tackling loneliness and isolation,
• promoting health and wellbeing, or
• creating new opportunities for local residents.

The fund can also support new community projects or help existing projects expand and reach more people.

Councillor Coleen De Freitas, Cabinet Member for Skills, Economy and Young People, said:

“Stevenage has so many fantastic community groups and organisations doing amazing work to support local people, and we want to help them do even more.

“This year’s Stevenage Works Community Chest Fund is the largest we have ever had, totalling approximately £54,000 and it’s a fantastic opportunity for groups across Stevenage to turn their ideas into action. You don't have to be a large organisation or have a huge project to apply – if you have an idea that could benefit people in our community, we want to hear from you.

“I would encourage anyone who has been thinking about applying, but wasn't sure whether their idea would be suitable, to take a look at the fund and apply. You could be helping to create new opportunities, bring people together, improve wellbeing or make a real difference to your local community.

“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to all of the contractors and organisations who have contributed to this year’s fund. Their support is helping put investment back into Stevenage’s communities and supporting the groups that make our town such a great place to live.”

The Stevenage Works Community Chest Fund is made possible through contributions from contractors working with Stevenage Borough Council through their social value commitments. The money is then invested back into the communities where those contractors work.

This year, contributions have been made by Coulter | Sureserve | TSG | Chas Berger | Etec | Equans | UI | SSR | Getfix | R G Carter | PiLON | Sudbury Dry Lining (Hill) | Jewson | Bugler | InPost | Bell | Modebest (Morgan Sindall) | EEM.

Their contributions are helping give local organisations the opportunity to deliver projects that benefit residents across Stevenage.

The fund is open to:

• community groups and clubs,
• charities and voluntary organisations,
• local organisations, and
• individuals working with or on behalf of a community group.

Small community groups are particularly encouraged to apply – organisations do not have to be large to have an idea that could make a difference.

Applications are now open and need to be received by 18 October 2026

Anyone with an idea for a project that could benefit the Stevenage community is encouraged to apply and explain what they would like to achieve, who the project would help and how the funding could make it happen.

If you are unsure whether your project is eligible, or would like to discuss your idea before applying, contact the Stevenage Works team on 01438 242999 or email Stevenageworks@stevenage.gov.uk.

To find out more and apply, visit the Stevenage Works Community Chest Fund page on the council website.