The government has announced £2.5 million for projects, groups and organisations bringing people together and transforming their community as part of the Common Ground Award.

Communities across England will be able to bid for new funding to help bring people together, create welcoming local spaces and strengthen relationships in their area.

The Common Ground Award was first launched in 2025 and is now opening to a second wave of applicants.

The funding could be spent on turning an old community building into a more welcoming hub, buying equipment so more people can take part in local activities, or creating spaces where neighbours can meet, talk and bridge divides.

The funding is designed to support projects that encourage understanding between people from different backgrounds, reduce prejudice and help ease local tensions.  

This current round will deliver up to £2.5 million in funding, with individual applicants able to bid for between £20,000 and £50,000 to improve the facilities, spaces and equipment that help them continue delivering vital work in their communities.

Minister for Communities, Florence Eshamlomi, said: "Strong communities are built in the conversations between neighbours and in the everyday spaces where people can come together, build trust and feel like they belong.

"This funding has already done so much to strengthen connections across England, from community cafés and sports clubs to pop-up living rooms that get people talking and forging new ties.

"I’m looking forward to seeing even more organisations backed by this funding, continuing their excellent work to bridge divides and build more resilient communities across the country."

Eric Noi, founder of Oldham Boxing & Personal Development Centre, said: "As a recipient of the Common Ground Award, we have been empowered to reach and engage more people across our community, breaking down barriers and making access to sport and physical activity genuinely inclusive.

"At a time when many sports and activities are becoming increasingly commercialised and exclusive, the Common Ground Award has enabled us to champion a different approach, one where opportunity is open to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.

"Our aim is to ensure that sport remains accessible, affordable and welcoming, particularly for those who are too often excluded."