East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is operated by Transport UK, has announced the launch of its 2026 Community Fund, with £100,000 to support projects that make a positive difference across the communities it serves.
The fund is open to non-profit organisations located within 15 kilometres of an EMR-managed station and aims to empower grassroots organisations and community groups to deliver meaningful projects that enhance wellbeing, inclusion, and opportunity across the region.
Successful applicants will be awarded grants to bring their ideas to life, with all bids required to be submitted by midnight on 22 May 2026. Applicants will be notified of outcomes during the first week of June.
All application forms and guidance are available via the EMR website, and applicants are encouraged to review the scheme criteria carefully to ensure eligibility, including match funding requirements.
Completed applications must be signed by the organisation’s Chair or Manager, and Treasurer or Secretary.
Kaye Robinson, Community Engagement Manager at East Midlands Railway, said: “The Community Fund is a great opportunity for worthwhile projects across our region to apply for much-needed support.
“If your charity, group or club is in need of funding, or has some worthwhile projects that require a financial helping hand, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. But move fast, we will be closing the application window soon.”
The impact of the Community Fund can already be seen through a range of inspiring projects supported in previous years.
In Derby, Derby Theatre received £4,000 to expand its Dementia Café programme, increasing its reach into care homes and supporting both residents living with dementia and their carers.
The funding has enabled a series of activities, including a special afternoon tea event celebrating the theatre’s 50th anniversary, as well as a care home roadshow bringing interactive festive performances to six locations across Derby and Derbyshire.
Over The Wall Camp was awarded £10,576 to fund places for 10 children with serious illness at its transformational residential camps. The funding covers accommodation, activities, transport, and equipment, allowing young people to focus on building confidence, having fun, and connecting with others facing similar challenges.
The organisation is also preparing to open a new permanent site in Derbyshire in 2026, expanding its reach to even more families.
Meanwhile, The Sisterhood Collective, delivered by Sequence, received £1,000 to support a series of public talks and a month-long exhibition at Nottingham Central Library.
The project showcases the work of women and women-identifying photographers, providing access to professional development opportunities and a public platform for underrepresented voices. The initiative also contributes to wider goals around gender equality, education, and reducing inequality, while strengthening community engagement through the arts.
Community groups and organisations interested in applying can find full details, guidance, and application forms at: www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/community-fund
For further support or queries, applicants can contact the EMR Community Fund team via email at communityFund@eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk .
