IW BAP: Grants

Sources of funding for environmental projects

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Sources of funding for biodiversity work on the Isle of Wight

Download the latest funding resources table

Funding Options

Listed below are several examples of possible funding options for projects with Biodiversity in mind. Click here to download a table detailing awarding bodies, sums available, eligibility and useful links. This is updated from time to time and describes both national schemes and more local schemes which may be suitable.

New Biodiversity Funding

The Heritage Lottery Fund are encouraging applications for funding on projects which conserve the UK's valuable natural heritage. Some useful guidance called 'Thinking about Biodiversity' has been put together by the HLF to help you progress your ideas.

Woodland Grants

For grants on land which includes woodland, particularly planting and managing woodland, you should contact the Forestry Commission. The JIGSAW Scheme has been brought back as an incentive to private landowners, in a bid to reconnect blocks of ancient woodland to allow wildlife to move more freely. Last time it was so successful that the island’s woodland cover was increased from 10 to 12 per cent. For further details contact michael.pittock@forestry.gsi.gov.uk.

Nature Conservation

If you own or manage a SSSI you may be eligible to apply for a grant from Natural England to assist with conservation and management of the site. English Nature do not normally provide funding for sites which are not SSSIs.

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

If your site is within the AONB you may be eligible for a grant from the AONB partnership. The partnership gives small grants for certain types of project, which vary from year to year. Enquire of them to see whether you are eligible and what their present funding streams are, and perhaps you may get some ideas for your project.

Agricultural Land

If you farm agricultural land you may be eligible for types of funding from Natural England. This is known as the Environmental Stewardship and includes what was formerly the Countryside Stewardship scheme. You may need some advice and help if you are going to explore this option, as it can be quite complicated. however it is well worth it as it does provide one of the best and most reliable sources of funding for farmers - for example the basic entry level scheme is guaranteed acceptance if you are eligible. To give farmers more information about other funding and advice the Isle of Wight AONB Partnership with the Leader + scheme has produced a ‘Farm Fact File’. The Farm Fact File points farmers in the direction of advice, information and funding sources currently available to help them to continue to earn a living and look after our beautiful Island.

Community projects and other funds

Biffaward give grants on the Isle of Wight for projects that enable communities to improve local amenities and to conserve wildlife and habitats, in addition it supports projects that increase or maintain Biodiversity.

The Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society (RIWAS) has bursary funds available for agricultural training for those in full-time further education.

Isle of Wight Rural Community Council provides support to individuals and community groups, including funding information.