The latest round of the council’s NCIL Neighbourhood Fund is now open, giving local organisations and community groups the opportunity to secure up to £15,000 each in funding, for projects that benefit their communities.
Funded through the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL), the fund has previously supported a wide range of grassroots projects across the borough – from activities bringing neighbours together to projects creating new opportunities and improving local spaces.
Since the fund launched in 2017 over £1.7m has been handed out, supporting 177 community groups to grow, develop, and make a difference in their neighbourhood.
Local residents have a role in deciding where the funding goes, with community representatives involved in the assessment process, followed by ‘Dragons Den’ style pitches.
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham council, said: “Our communities know their neighbourhoods better than anyone, and often they are the ones with the best ideas about what could make a difference.
“The Neighbourhood Fund is about giving those ideas a chance to become reality. Whether it’s bringing people together, creating opportunities for young people, supporting local activities or making better use of community spaces – it starts right here!
“We’ve seen some brilliant projects come forward through previous rounds, and I’m looking forward to seeing what our communities come up with this time. So, if you’re part of a local group with an idea that could benefit your neighbourhood, I’d encourage you to apply.”
The council is particularly keen to hear from organisations with fresh ideas that respond to the needs and priorities of their local community. Eligible community and voluntary organisations, charities, and not-for-profit organisations operating in Barking and Dagenham can apply.
The Neighbourhood Fund is funded through NCIL, which helps ensure that new developments in the borough contribute towards local infrastructure and community priorities.
The latest funding round is open until Sunday 18 October.
For more information, including the eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit the council’s website: https://oneboroughvoice.lbbd.gov.uk/neighbourhood-fund-ncil-autumn-2026-application?preview=true