West Midlands Circular Economy Call to Action Grant Fund Invites Bids

Grants support local repair and reuse projects that cut landfill waste across the West Midlands

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has opened applications to its Circular Economy Call to Action Fund, offering small grants to support locally led activities that promote repair and reuse and reduce the amount of products and materials sent to landfill.

The grant pot is funded by Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, and is delivered by WMCA. It has a total budget of £100,000, with awards of up to £5,000 per project.

The funding is aimed at community groups, charities, community interest companies (CICs) and social enterprises delivering projects within the WMCA area. Applicants must also be signed up to the Community Environment Network.

Supported activities can include repair sessions, swap shops, libraries of things, school workshops and awareness campaigns. Projects are required to focus on at least one of the following areas: improving air quality, helping communities adapt to climate change or restoring nature.

Grants are intended for work that reduces waste and keeps resources in use for longer, engages residents and community organisations in project activities and creates a legacy beyond the award period. Proposals can also include actions that help local people save money, develop skills and strengthen local communities while contributing to a circular economy.