East Midlands Freeport is inviting voluntary, community organisations and charities to apply to the next round of the Skills and Community Equity Fund.
The Fund supports practical projects that help local people build skills, overcome barriers and access opportunities created by East Midlands Freeport investment. We particularly welcome proposals supporting young people, underrepresented groups, people furthest from the labour market and communities facing disadvantage.
This round builds on the Fund’s successful pilot, which introduced young people to engineering, strengthened STEM learning in schools and delivered accredited logistics training with wraparound support for people furthest from work.
Applications open: 9 September 2026
Application deadline: 5pm on 6 October 2026
Apply for funding
Please read the guidance and supporting information before completing your application:
Download the application guidance
Read the claims and project monitoring guide
View the eligible Freeport area
Read the East Midlands Freeport Skills Delivery Plan
Completed applications should be emailed to info@emfreeport.com by the deadline.
Meet the Funder
Applicants can attend a Meet the Funder session to learn more and ask questions before applying:
- Wednesday 16 September 2026, 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dryden Centre, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ
- Friday 18 September 2026, 9.30am to 12.30pm, Coalville C.A.N. (CAN HQ), Memorial Square, Coalville, LE67 3TU
- Friday 18 September 2026, 2.00pm to 4.30pm, Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Clifton Lane, Clifton, Nottingham, NG11 8NS
For questions about the Fund or to sign up to the Meet the Funder sessions, email info@emfreeport.com.