New grant fund opens to support Doncaster communities
Groups in Doncaster can apply for grants of up to £3,500 following the launch of a new fund by South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF).
Working in partnership with Citizens Advice Doncaster and the Community Advice Network, SYCF has opened the Together We CAN Fund.
The fund is open to not-for-profit groups based in Doncaster, supporting projects that benefit local residents and help communities become more resilient in the face of challenges such as the rising cost of living.
It will support projects which build connections, reduce loneliness, create opportunities for young people, strengthen neighbourhoods and bring people together.
South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation provides grants to community and voluntary organisations across South Yorkshire, helping local groups deliver projects that make a difference to people and communities.
James Woods, CEO of Citizens Advice Doncaster, said: “As an anchor organisation in Doncaster, a big part of our role is about supporting others to grow, succeed and make a difference.
That’s what this fund is about. Turning collaboration into action and backing local organisations with great ideas that can make our communities stronger.
"We’re really excited to see what comes forward.”
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, SYCF has awarded more than £40 million to support communities across Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster and Sheffield over the last four decades.
Jess O’Neill, Grants and Partnerships Manager at South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Citizens Advice Doncaster and the Community Advice Network to launch the Together We CAN Fund.
“At a time when many people are facing financial pressures and feeling increasingly isolated, there is a real need for projects that bring people together and strengthen local communities.
We’re particularly keen to hear from groups with creative, community-led ideas that can make a real difference.
"Whether that’s helping people feel less isolated, creating opportunities for young people, strengthening neighbourhoods or bringing people from different backgrounds together. We want to support projects that build stronger, more connected communities in Doncaster.”
Applications close at 9am on Monday 12 October 2026, with a second round expected to open in late November 2026.
Groups applying must be registered Community Advice Network members.
Meet Jess
Jess works Mondays - Thursdays every week and oversees all of the grant programmes here at SYCF, so is able to help with any queries you might have about what we fund.
She also oversees our panels and our many volunteers that lead on our decision making for many of our funds.
Jess holds a weekly Teams drop-in sessions to support with anything applicants might need. These are held most Wednesdays 4pm - 5pm. The link to this can be found on our Apply here, or Search our Grants page.
Jess O'Neill
Grants and Partnerships Manager
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