North Herts Council has unveiled a brand-new online grant application system designed to make it easier than ever for local community groups to apply for funding.

The updated digital platform – now live on the council's website – aims to streamline the entire process for charities, voluntary organisations, and not-for-profits across the district. The new form feeds directly into the platform, cutting paperwork and speeding up how applications are handled.

Community groups will benefit from a range of improvements, including:

• Quicker, simpler applications
• Real-time updates on application progress
• Less administration for council officers, freeing them up to support more projects

The council hopes the switch to a smarter digital system will encourage more local organisations to apply for funding to improve green spaces, run events, and support vulnerable residents.

Cllr Daniel Allen, Leader of North Herts Council and Executive Member for Governance, said:

"We are constantly looking for ways to improve how we serve our community. This new digital grants platform and application form will not only ease the process for applicants, but for our officers too, allowing us to focus more of our resources on supporting the vital community projects that make North Herts such a great place to live."

Local groups can now access the new online form, full guidance, eligibility criteria and key deadlines for 2025/26 via the council's Community Grants webpage.

Anyone needing help navigating the platform or understanding the process can email the Community Partnerships Team at [email protected] for support.