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What is the Horizon Community Fund?

The Horizon Community Fund supports community led projects that promote inclusion, wellbeing, and positive social impact. It is designed to help ideas grow and to help make sure the benefits last long after the funding ends.

We back projects that are shaped with people who have lived experience of substance use. By co designing programmes together, we can create support that truly reflects what local people want and need.

We welcome applications from charities, organisations, and community groups that are providing support for people across Bristol. 


What projects can the fund support?

Your project should contribute to creating fairer, healthier communities while helping people build wellbeing in everyday life.

Projects should focus on one or more of the themes below: 

  • Employment, Volunteering & Skills
    Supporting people to learn, grow and access opportunities.
  • Social Connections & Community Participation
    Helping people build relationships and feel part of their community.
  • Environment & Sustainability
    Improving local spaces and encouraging trust, safety and connection.
  • Access to Health Services
    Removing barriers and helping people get the right support when they need it.
  • Healthy Lifestyles & Prevention
    Promoting safer choice, wellbeing and support.
  • Tackling Racism, Inequality & Stigma
    Creating inclusive, welcoming communities where everyone is valued.
A woman smiling at another woman

How do I complete an application?

You can submit your application in writing or as a video - using our application form below.

What questions will I be asked?

In the application, you will be asked to answer the following eight questions:

  1. Tell us about your project idea
  2. Why is this project needed in your area?
  3. What benefits will your project bring to the community?
  4. How will you make sure your project is inclusive and reaches those who need it most?
  5. What are the main goals of your project?
  6. Describe how your project will create a lasting impact beyond the funding period.
  7. How will you identify and manage risks to ensure people are safe?
  8. How will you monitor and evaluate your project to ensure it meets its goals?

Apply for the Community Innovation Fund

Please remember to download and complete the Budget Sheet template and email it to BristolHorizonsFund@turning-point.co.uk with the title of your project as the email subject.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

Voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise organisations that are providing support for people across Bristol. 

Your organisation must be at least one of the below:

  • Registered charity or charitable incorporated organisation 
  • Not-for-profit company or community interest company 
  • Voluntary, community group or Sports club
  • Not-for-profit company or community interest company 
  • School, college, or university (if the project benefits the wider community) 
  • Faith-based group
    We can’t accept applications from individuals.

Applicants must have:

  • A signed constitution
  • Dual‑authorisation bank account
  • 12 months of accounts
  • Active board
  • Safeguarding policy

What costs are not funded?

We do not fund: projects taking place outside of Bristol, unrelated core wages, overheads, capital purchases, completed activities, alcohol‑promoting activity, political/religious activity, overseas travel, fundraising, profit‑making activity and evaluation/reporting costs.

Facilitation costs must be ≤20% unless justified.

When will I hear back?

If you do not hear from us within 2 weeks of the application deadline, please assume your application was not shortlisted.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend a funding panel. The funding panels for the Local Community fund sit 4 times per year. We will aim to give you as much notice as possible when inviting you to attend one of our panels to present your ideas.

Can I apply more than once?

Yes, but priority is given to applicants who have not received a grant in the past 12 months.

How can I get in contact?

For general queries or to learn more please contact us at: BristolHorizonsFund@turning-point.co.uk