Connect Fund

Schools and community groups wanting to visit the Peak District National Park may be able to benefit from a Connect Fund Grant.

Our Connect Fund grants are designed to remove barriers for under-represented communities to access, understand and enjoy the park.

We make grants to schools, community groups and associations – you do not need to be a registered charity but you do need to have a business or organisational bank account.

What does the Connect Fund cover?

You can apply for a grant of up to £500 towards the cost of a trip to the Peak District National Park. This could include:

  • Transport costs
  • Learning provider fees
  • Any equipment needed for your activity
  • The cost of providing food to participants if this is a major barrier to their involvement

The Peak District National Park Authority delivers learning activities at a range of sites across the Park, and our network of Ambassador centres offer instruction and training in outdoor activities.

Eligibility

Schools:

  • All state-funded schools and colleges with 30% or more pupils eligible for Free School Meals, are eligible to apply for the grant. We use the “Get information about schools service” as our data source to confirm percentage of Free School Meals.
  • Your school is eligible for one grant per academic year.
  • Visits and trips can take place during term-time or during the school holidays, but must take place within six months of the grant being made

Community groups, associations and charities:

  • Organisations/groups looking to deliver an event or project that is entirely focused on under-represented groups can apply. Priorities for the Connect Fund are ethnically diverse groups, groups from low-income areas, and those with disabilities.
  • Your organisation/group is eligible for one grant per year
  • The visit or trip must take place within six months of the grant being made.

How do I apply?

  • Get quotes for provider costs and/or travel costs.
  • Plan your transport. Think sustainable.
  • Download an application form, fill in and return to us at hello@peakdistrictfoundation.org.uk
  • If you have any questions or need help completing the form, contact us at hello@peakdistrictfoundation.org.uk or 01629 700 606
  • Grants will be awarded every two months. Our application deadlines are 28 February, 30 April, 30 June, 30 September, 30 November.
  • If your application is successful, you will be sent an email to confirm the grant. We aim to respond within ten working days.