We are delighted to announce that the Smethwick Pride in Place funding programme is now open. This marks a major milestone for us as a Board and for the wider Pride in Place programme.
The Pride in Place programme is a government-funded initiative aimed at helping communities improve local areas, strengthen connections, and build pride in place.
Following the Government’s approval of Smethwick’s 10-year Regeneration Plan in April, the launch of this funding programme represents an important step in turning our shared vision into action.
Through this programme, we will award grants ranging from £500 up to £25,000 in Year 1 to groups and organisations working for the benefit of Smethwick communities. All funded projects will need to be delivered within 12 months of receiving a grant.
Funding will support projects that align with government’s pre-approved investment themes, including those that improve local environments, strengthen community connections, support young people and families, and create opportunities for learning, skills, and employment. We will also support initiatives that promote health and wellbeing, improve community safety, and enhance local infrastructure where these contribute to positive outcomes for residents.
We have introduced a two-stage application process, consisting of an initial expression of interest followed by a full application for shortlisted projects. All applicants must speak with a Neighbourhood Development Officer before submitting an expression of interest, to discuss their proposal and ensure it aligns with the programme. Online guidance is also available, and applicant support sessions can also be booked to help organisations develop their ideas and applications. We strongly encourage partnership working and local spend to maximise the benefits of this investment within Smethwick.
The launch of this funding programme is a significant step forward in delivering the ambitions set out in the Regeneration Plan, providing an opportunity for local organisations and groups to bring forward projects that respond directly to community needs.
Alan Taylor, Chair of the Smethwick Partnership Board, said:
“The launch of the Smethwick Pride in Place funding programme is a significant milestone for the Partnership Board and for the community. It represents a real opportunity to turn the vision set out in the Regeneration Plan into tangible improvements across Smethwick.
"Local organisations and residents understand their communities best, and this programme is designed to support them to deliver projects that make a meaningful difference. The Board looks forward to working together to strengthen pride in Smethwick and create lasting benefits for local people.”
Gurinder Singh Josan MBE, MP for Smethwick and Smethwick Partnership Board Member, said:
“I was pleased to lobby this Government for additional funding for Smethwick and delighted when Smethwick was chosen as one of the recipients of £20million Pride in Place funding. This new funding marks an important moment for Smethwick, bringing Government investment into the heart of our community and supporting long-term regeneration ambitions.
"I have been keen to ensure our Pride in Place is used to back local ideas and give our community the tools to shape their own future. By supporting projects that respond directly to local needs, this programme will help create stronger neighbourhoods, greater opportunity, and lasting change across Smethwick.”
Councillor Ray Nock, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said:
“There is a great deal to be proud of in Smethwick, and through the Pride in Place programme we are committed to making communities even stronger, more connected and better places to live and work.
"This funding will help focus on what matters most to people in Smethwick – from improving local spaces and strengthening community ties, to creating opportunities for jobs and skills. It will enable residents, local groups and organisations to come together and play a leading role in shaping the future of their neighbourhoods, with community-led action central to delivering meaningful and lasting change.”
This marks the beginning of an important stage in the Pride in Place programme, as we work together with partners and communities to deliver visible and lasting change across Smethwick.