Community groups in 10 priority areas across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are being urged to bid for a slice of a new £3 million fund to tackle deprivation and improve lives.
The Mayor’s Community Development Fund was today launched by Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward and English Devolution Minister, Jim McMahon.
The fund, which will run over the next three years, is aimed at boosting community resilience, increasing local skills, and enabling people to take control of shaping their own neighbourhoods.
Launching the fund at Gamesley Community Centre, Glossop, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “I’m so proud to announce my Mayor’s Community Development Fund alongside the English Devolution Minister, Jim McMahon, today. This fund is about empowering people – giving communities the confidence, tools and support they need to take control of their future. We’re not here to impose solutions from the top down. We’re investing in the assets, strength, and creativity that already exists in our communities, helping them to build resilience, grow and thrive.”
“People who came to our summer engagement events told me they wanted to be part of uncapping the potential of the East Midlands. It is my hope that the Mayor’s Community Development Fund will ensure that opportunity is extended everywhere.”
Mayor Claire and the English Devolution Minister met staff, volunteers and users at the centre, which is used for activities including boxing, football and holiday clubs.
Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution, Jim McMahon OBE said: “Mayors know what their region needs most, and this new initiative from Mayor Claire is another great example of how devolution is putting communities across the East Midlands back in control of their futures.
“There is so much potential in this funding, from tackling deprivation to bringing local people together, and they will help everyone in the East Midlands unlock their full potential and benefit from the decade of national renewal we promised in our Plan for Change.”
Gamesley is one of 10 areas across Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Derbyshire eligible for the fund, with the Mayor and English Devolution Minister, hearing about the difference the project will make by providing vital support to tackle deprivation, strengthen local resilience and give communities the tools to support themselves.
The 10 priority areas across the East Midlands chosen to benefit are:
The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is now taking registrations of interest from community groups from the priority areas who may be eligible for funding.
Mayor Claire Ward added: “By backing local organisations that understand the unique needs of their neighbourhoods, we’re building a fairer, more inclusive East Midlands where no one is left behind.”
To be successful, projects must also be community led, with residents actively involved in planning and delivery.
Encouraged schemes include:
The fund will be targeted at the priority areas across the region, selected using local data and insight from councils. Both established and emerging organisations are eligible to apply, provided their work is rooted in the communities they serve.
You can find full details on the Fund, FAQs, guidance and check eligibility on the below webpage. This is where you will also find the expression of interest form.
Visit: Mayors Community Development Fund – East Midlands Combined County Authority
Application window: opens 4 September to 14 November 2025
Organisations are encouraged to submit an expression of interest before submitting a full application.
Published on: 4 September 2025
Categories: News