Sport England

Sport England, a non-departmental public body under the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, was established in 1996 (with roots as The Sports Council since 1972) to boost participation in sport and physical activity across England, dismantling barriers for all regardless of background, gender, or location. Its 10-year Uniting the Movement strategy (launched 2021) drives this mission through inclusion, equity, collaboration, and sustainability, using evidence from Active Lives surveys to support least active communities via partnerships with local councils, schools, NHS, and charities. Distinctively, it blends national leadership with grassroots delivery, protects playing fields, and invests up to £300 million annually from government and National Lottery sources for lasting change.

The Movement Fund prioritises projects tackling inequalities, enhancing mental/physical health, fostering community cohesion, promoting sustainability (e.g., Every Move), and developing talent from grassroots to elite. It backs initiatives for women, children, older adults, disabled people, and those in poverty or isolation, funding community sports, facility tweaks linked to activity, coaching, equipment, campaigns like This Girl Can and We Are Undefeatable, research, and national governing body partnerships—emphasising long-term embedding over short fixes.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, CICs, community groups, social enterprises, and academic institutions operating solely in England; no income thresholds apply, but those seeking over £10,000 need Tier One Code for Sports Governance compliance. Grants range £300–£15,000 (max £15,000 total per 12 months), excluding core/revenue costs or unlinked capital projects. Unsolicited applications via online portal (register first, upload governance/financial docs) are rolling, with 6–8 week decisions—apply 12 weeks ahead for seamless support.