Guidance
The Connect Fund
The Connect Fund was announced at the East West Council on 12 June 2025 to strengthen East-West collaboration between community and voluntary groups.
This was published under the 2024 to 2026 Starmer Labour government
Documents
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Details
The Northern Ireland Office’s Connect Fund provides awards from a funding pot of up to £2.5 million to support groups working in sectors which directly affect Northern Ireland communities, helping them to tackle mutual challenges and opportunities which also affect communities in Great Britain.
Applicants will fulfill objectives such as strengthening East-West connections by developing long lasting civic relationships; supporting the development of cultural, sports and people links; building leadership capability and facilitating constructive dialogue on shared opportunities and challenges facing UK communities. Each group can bid for between £300 and £50,000 to deliver its objectives.
A list of key documents associated with the Connect Fund is available above, alongside a list of previously successful applications. Please note these documents are subject to change and will be updated ahead of future Connect Fund Rounds.
Updates to this page
Published 6 October 2025