Community groups across South Cambridgeshire can now apply for funding to support projects that cut carbon emissions, boost nature recovery and bring people together, as the District Council’s Zero Carbon Communities grant scheme officially opens.
The Council committed £152,000 to the scheme this year, with the maximum grant available per project increased to £19,500. Where appropriate, applicants are encouraged to seek match funding from other sources, such as parish or town councils, to help projects go further and deliver longer lasting benefits.
Since launching in 2019, the Zero Carbon Communities grant scheme has supported 82 projects across South Cambridgeshire, awarding more than £855,000. Funded initiatives have included energy efficiency improvements to community buildings, renewable energy generation, cycling infrastructure and events, food waste reduction schemes, and community growing and gardening projects.
This year’s scheme has been updated to reflect feedback from communities and the Council’s Climate and Nature Strategy. Eligibility has been widened to include projects on school sites and applications from parent and teacher associations, where there is a clear benefit to the wider community. Sports and recreational groups, such as bowls clubs, are also eligible if their projects support community wellbeing, mental health or stronger local connections.
Of the £152,000 available, half is set aside for projects that directly reduce carbon emissions or lock up carbon, with the remaining half allocated to community engagement and nature‑based projects.
The application window is now open and closes on Friday 24 July 2026. Groups considering applying can also access guidance and support from the Council to help shape strong bids – or email zcc@scambs.gov.uk for specific questions.
South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Lead Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Laurence Damary-Homan, said: “The opening of this year’s Zero Carbon Communities grant scheme is another step in helping our communities take practical action on climate change and nature recovery. This is especially important as the climate and ecological crises we face are real and present emergencies. By increasing the maximum grant available, widening eligibility and giving equal weight to people, nature and carbon reduction, we’re making it easier for local groups to turn good ideas into projects that make a real difference. Local action is vital, and this fund exists to support the brilliant work already happening across South Cambridgeshire.”
The Zero Carbon Communities grant is funded through the Council’s Renewables Reserve, which is made up of business rates collected from commercial renewable energy projects, such as solar farms, located within South Cambridgeshire.
Read more about the District Council’s Zero Carbon Communities grant and watch videos of case studies from previous beneficiaries at www.scambs.gov.uk/zero-carbon-communities-grant
View all news