01278 228004

Chamber News

You are here: 

One Stop Community Partnership opens funding for local groups across Somerset

Monday 23rd March, 2026

Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce is pleased to share a funding opportunity that could support a wide range of community groups and local organisations across Somerset.

The One Stop Community Partnership programme is inviting eligible groups to apply for grants of up to £1,000, alongside the chance to develop a longer term partnership with their local One Stop store team.

The programme is designed to support organisations working within 2 miles of a One Stop store and focuses on projects that are:

  • Tackling food poverty
  • Supporting vulnerable people
  • Supporting older people
  • Supporting low income families
  • Running youth sports teams
  • Reducing or recycling waste
  • Improving the environment

As well as receiving a grant, successful applicants can work with their local One Stop team to create a tailored programme of support. This may include volunteering help, fundraising support and raising awareness for the organisation’s work in the community.

Please note that the programme cannot support food banks or breakfast clubs with funding to purchase food items. However, food banks may be eligible for funding for equipment such as fridges, freezers or storage units. Groups in this position are also encouraged to speak directly with their local One Stop store manager about the possibility of setting up a food donation point.

2026 application windows

There are 2 application rounds for 2026:

  • Applications open 2 March 2026 Applications close 31 March 2026 Decision date week commencing 11 May 2026
  • Applications open 1 September 2026 Applications close 30 September 2026 Decision date week commencing 9 November 2026

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible within each window, although there is no need to rush.

Who can apply

To be eligible:

  • Your organisation or project address must be within 2 miles of a One Stop store
  • The store you are applying through must show “Funding Available” on the store locator
  • You must only submit 1 application on behalf of your organisation
  • If your organisation has received funding from One Stop Community Partnerships in the last 12 months, you are not eligible to apply

How to apply

Groups should first read the guidance notes, then use the One Stop store locator to check whether they are within the required distance of a store and whether funding is available. If eligible, they can then complete the online application form.

Latest news

Free and funded AI training for Somerset and Dorset businesses
October 30, 2026

A 10-week Generative AI Skills Bootcamp is now open for enrolment, with free places for the self-employed Want to use AI at work but not sure where to start? A funded Generative AI Skills Bootcamp, run by award-winning training provider Techosaurus with Yeovil College, is now open for enrolment in Yeovil and Dorset. The course…

Read More
Free Google AI Professional Certificate helps Somerset workers and businesses build everyday AI skills
October 26, 2026

A free, self-paced programme of eight online courses is open for enrolment, with support from trainers and an official Google certificate on completion For many businesses, the question is no longer whether AI will affect the way they work, but how to help their teams use it well. A free programme now open for enrolment…

Read More
Free business mentoring on offer for Somerset SMEs: six hours with an experienced business leader
October 25, 2026

Somerset Council is inviting local small and medium-sized businesses to apply for free mentoring, with applications taking around five minutes Somerset businesses facing a tough decision, a growth plateau or simply a lack of someone to bounce ideas off now have a free way to get experienced, impartial support. Somerset Council is offering six hours…

Read More
Four free webinars to help Somerset businesses market smarter, plan better and start strong
October 24, 2026

The Somerset Growth Hub is highlighting free live and on-demand sessions from the Government’s Business Academy, covering AI marketing, business planning and getting a business idea off the ground Whether you’re looking to make your marketing go further or turn an idea into a viable business, four free webinars from the Government’s Business Academy offer…

Read More