£290,000 available for community events and activities throughout Salford’s centenary year.
Funding to match specific events and activities that explore the past, celebrate the present and imagine the future.
“The centenary marks a truly special moment in our city’s history.”
From an unmissable cultural programme and civic events to vibrant community festivals, exhibitions and tributes to local heroes, 2026 will mark a proud milestone – 100 years since Salford officially became a city.
As part of the centenary programme, £290,000 in funding is now available, managed by Salford CVS, to support voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations and Salford City Council departments based in Salford or with a strong track record of delivery in the city. Applications can made via the Salford 100 website, with decisions made within 6-8 weeks of the application deadline.
Small grants – up to £1,000 no turnover threshold or membership of Salford CVS is required. Decision panels will take place in spring, summer and autumn.
Large grants – up to £10,000 to applicants with a minimum turnover of £10,000 in the last financial year. Deadline for submission is Friday 13th February at 12:00 (midday).
See guidance document for full eligibility.
Projects will need to match one or more of three types of specific events and activities:
- Exploring the past – Learning, documenting, interpreting and sharing the heritage, histories, and told/untold stories of Salford.
- Celebrating the present – Empowering the diverse and dynamic culture and communities at the heart of the towns and city of Salford.
- Imagining the future – Harnessing the energy, creativity and imagination of the city to develop a collective creative vision and mission for the future.
In December, a new centenary flag featuring the Salford 100 branding was raised by Salford’s City Mayor who reflected that the centenary celebrations would promote the “Spirit of Salford.”
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “The centenary marks a truly special moment in our city’s history and something to be proud of and celebrate. Through a city-wide programme of cultural, civic and community events, we encourage voluntary, community and social enterprises to get involved by using this funding opportunity to make it happen.
“Working with city partners, our goal is to make 2026 a year to remember for residents and visitors, reflecting the people and places that make Salford unique. Together, we will honour our past, celebrate our present, and shape an innovative, inclusive and promising future.”
Chief Executive at Salford CVS, Alison Page, said: “Salford CVS is delighted to be partnering with Salford City Council to launch the Salford Centenary Fund, a one-of-a-kind funding opportunity to support community groups, charities and other organisations to put on a diverse range of events and activities to celebrate Salford's 100 years. We're inviting applications for events and activities that will explore Salford's past, celebrate the present, and imagine the future - we can't wait to hear your exciting and inspiring ideas!”
Questions about completing the application form, or to discuss a project proposal with a member of the Grants Team, please contact centenary@salfordcvs.co.uk or call 0161 787 7795. Applicants can also visit Salford Centenary Fund | Salford CVS.
If successful, a grant can be spent on:
Volunteer expenses
Venue hire
Materials
Refreshments
Promotion and publicity
Public liability insurance
Staffing / freelancer costs
Reasonable equipment hire / purchase
Accessibility costs – e.g. BSL or travel costs
Most other reasonable costs required to run the activity or event, which are directly linked to the aims of the fund