Local charities and groups in London are being invited to apply for funding to make a difference in their community this September, through the Mayor’s Community Weekend.
After a popular first outing in 2023, this is the second time the event has been hosted by The National Lottery Community Fund – the largest community funder in the UK – and the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
The Mayor’s Community Weekend takes place from Friday 12th September to Sunday 14th September. It aims to unite people through community-led activities which make a positive difference.
This year, £385,000 of National Lottery funding is available for events and activities that get people involved in their community, instil safety, trust and belonging, build relationships, improve the local environment, and help young Londoners thrive. Grants ranging from £500 to £2,000 will be on offer to groups across all of Greater London’s 32 boroughs and the City of London.
The Weekend will highlight what communities can achieve together when provided with common places and spaces. Example events could include volunteering, environmental activities, cultural events or a picnic in the park to bring neighbours together.
During the first London Mayor’s Community Weekend in 2023, almost 200 celebratory community events were hosted to create strong relationships in and across communities, thanks to £250,000 of National Lottery funding.
Sadiq Khan, The Mayor of London, said: “I’m thrilled that City Hall is working in partnership with The National Lottery Community Fund to hold the second Mayor’s Community Weekend in September. The first event in 2023 was a huge success, and community groups and organisations can again apply for grants to host a wide range of events and activities across the capital. It’s a great way to bring Londoners together and celebrate our diversity, as we build a better London for everyone.”
John Mothersole, England Chair at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “The Mayor’s Community Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for communities across London to be bold and make something amazing on their doorstep. Thanks to National Lottery players, it will bring groups from all corners and demographics of the city together to celebrate London’s unique place in the world.
“We’re particularly interested in funding groups that are bringing people together for the first time and projects which empower young people to make a positive difference to their community, as they navigate some of the key transitions in their lives.”
National Lottery players raise over £30 million a week for good causes across the UK. Thanks to them, last year The National Lottery Community Fund was able to distribute over half a billion pounds (£615.4 million) of life-changing funding to communities. More than 80% of our game-changing grants are for under £20,000 – going to grassroots groups and local charities at the heart of their communities.
Groups can apply for funding from today (Wednesday 9th April, 2025) to hold an event during the Mayor’s Community Weekend. Applications close on Wednesday 30th April, 2025.
