Kirklees Together

A new fund has been launched to support creative and cultural projects across Kirklees. 

We’ve partnered with One Community and BAM Construction to launch the Our Cultural Heart Fund, which will provide grants to voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across the district. 

The aim is simple. Support local groups to bring ideas to life that celebrate culture, heritage and wellbeing in our communities. 

Funding to help creative ideas grow 

The fund offers two levels of support depending on the size of the project: 

• Grants of up to £10,000 for smaller community projects. 

• Grants of up to £25,000 for larger initiatives. 

Projects could include things like community choirs, wellbeing events, festivals or creative projects that celebrate local history and culture. 

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of local experts, including representatives from One Community, Kirklees Council and BAM Construction, to ensure funding decisions reflect the needs and priorities of local communities. 

Inspired by Our Cultural Heart 

The fund takes its name from Our Cultural Heart, our flagship regeneration project that is transforming the Queensgate area of Huddersfield town centre. 

Phase 1 of the project is progressing well. When it opens, it will bring: 

• A brand new community library hub. 

• A welcoming public square. 

• A vibrant food hall inside the refurbished Grade II listed former Queensgate Market building. 

The second phase will transform the former library building on Princess Alexandra Walk into a brand-new museum and art gallery. 

Investing in people and place 

David Shepherd, Executive Director for Place, said: 

“The Our Cultural Heart Fund reflects what this project has always been about. While the development itself will transform the town centre physically, its real purpose is about people and place, celebrating the character, creativity and culture that make Kirklees such a vibrant borough. 

“Our Cultural Heart is a once-in-a-generation investment in Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees community. It plays a key role in our plans to revitalise the town centre, creating an inclusive destination where people can spend more time, connect with one another and enjoy culture and creativity together. Supporting cultural and heritage projects through this fund will help bring that vision to life.” 

Supporting the voluntary and community sector 

One Community will help manage the fund. The organisation connects donations and funding with a network of more than 2,500 charities and community organisations across Kirklees. 

Hayley Austin from One Community said: 

“We’re really excited about launching this fund to support fantastic organisations throughout Kirklees. There are so many incredible VCSE organisations across the district and we are so pleased to be able to provide a platform for them to thrive. 

“We welcome all local organisations to apply so we can support them in bringing their creative ideas to life – whether it’s a community choir, a festival of wellbeing, or a neighbourhood mural celebrating Huddersfield’s history.” 

How to apply 

The first round of applications opens Monday 16 March 2026 and closes Monday 27 April 2026. 

Successful groups will receive their funding by the end of May 2026. 

For full details on eligibility and how to apply, visit:
Local Charity Grants Available | One Community Kirklees