Culture and communities

Visit Explore Essex to find cultural events, activities, community engagement and funding opportunities.

Arts and Cultural Fund

Artists and cultural organisations can apply for grants between £2,500 and £30,000 from the Arts and Cultural Fund. The grants can be used to deliver projects that support and rejuvenate the arts and culture sector in Essex.

The Arts and Cultural Fund is open to:

• individual artists
• co-operatives
• charities and trusts
• community interest companies
• social enterprises
• public organisations

Find out more about past projects on the Explore Essex website.

Applications are now open for the 2023 round of funding. Expressions of Interest are open 1 to 31 October 2022, with full submissions live 1 to 30 November 2022.

To apply, or for more information, visit the Explore Essex website.

The Essex Lottery

The Essex Lottery supports community projects across Essex. Charities, community groups and other good causes can sign up for free and raise funds through ticket sales. Residents can support their chosen good cause and win cash prizes by playing the Essex Lottery for just £1 a week.

Voluntary and community organisations

Many of the local community and voluntary organisations provide support to residents of Essex. Find your local community or voluntary organisation.

The Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant

Find out how the council supports armed forces and veterans with the Essex Armed Forces Community Covenant.