Torfaen County Borough Council Cabinet members have approved plans to modernise the way grants are awarded to help community organisations play an even greater role in delivering the Torfaen Deal.
A new simpler, fairer and more transparent funding system will be introduced from April 2028, to ensure a wider range of voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations are able to apply for council-funded grants.
It comes after a review of the council's Third Sector Major Grant Scheme found it is restrictive, bureaucratic and time-limited, and does not encourage innovation and delivery.
Cabinet members supported a recommendation that the new funding model will include grants of up to £75,000 over three years, and annual grants of up to £20,000, phased in over the next two years.
Cllr Fiona Cross, Executive Member for Communities, said:
“Our community and voluntary organisations make a huge difference every day, helping residents access support, build connections and improve their quality of life.
“This decision recognises the value of that work while ensuring funding is aligned with the priorities set out in The Deal. By taking a phased approach, we are providing stability for existing organisations while creating opportunities for more groups to help shape the future of Torfaen.
“Ultimately, these changes are about investing in communities, supporting local solutions and ensuring residents can benefit from services and activities that make a real difference to their lives, now and in the future.”
According to the cabinet report, around £380,000 is provided to 13 organisations on an annual basis via the Third Sector Major Grants programme. The new grants process will see three year grants available up to a total of £280,000, and one year grants up to a total of £100,000.
A grants panel will be introduced to consider all applications submitted through an agreed proforma that will be simplified and used to establish how applications made align to the Deal.
