Greater Manchester Environment Trust

GMET funds two main programmes. The Green Spaces Fund supports community gardens, orchards, wildlife habitats, flood-resilient landscapes, blue spaces, social prescribing, ecotherapy, and environmental education. The Renew Community Fund focuses on waste reduction, recycling, reuse, repairing, and circular economy practices. All projects must be delivered exclusively within Greater Manchester's ten boroughs and benefit underserved communities, especially those in high-deprivation areas with limited access to nature. The Trust favours grassroots projects that deliver multiple environmental and social benefits, involve community co-design, and contribute to the region's climate goals.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, community groups, schools, and academic institutions. The Trust prioritises small and medium-sized grassroots organisations, particularly those working in high-deprivation areas across Greater Manchester. There is no faith restriction. Projects must be delivered exclusively within the ten boroughs of Greater Manchester. The Trust looks for organisations with a strong local connection and a focus on community-led environmental action.

GMET does not provide core funding. Projects must be both regional in scope (within Greater Manchester) and environmental in focus. Non-regional or non-environmental projects are not supported. The Trust also does not fund activities that fall outside its two programme themes.

GMET provides project-specific grants rather than core funding. The Trust blends philanthropic grants with green investments to leverage broader funding for environmental impact. Grants support grassroots initiatives that deliver multi-benefit outcomes.