The Jigsaw Foundation is a £450,000–£500,000 annual community fund delivered by Jigsaw Homes Group, supporting projects that improve the lives of residents across the North West and East Midlands.

The fund focuses on projects that make a tangible difference to local communities, particularly those benefiting Jigsaw residents. (guidance notes give details for specific areas and level of funds available)

• Health and wellbeing – promoting physical wellbeing, improving physical health, taking part in activities, healthy eating initiatives, improving mental wellbeing, increasing confidence to manage own health, to live more independently, reduce isolation.
• Work and skills – developing new skills, accessing training, gaining a qualification, getting into work, gaining work experience, volunteering, moving closer to work.

• Environment and Sustainability – engaging residents in improving spaces or places, improving green spaces, increasing usage of community spaces, improving lifestyle choices on environmental issues, improving energy efficiency. Reducing tenancy turnover, creating a sense of community cohesion, increasing a sense of belonging in the community, increasing a sense of safety.

• Financial wellbeing – improving access to money advice and management, increasing individual confidence to manage money, reducing debts, increasing savings and improving digital usage and access.

Funding is open to charities, community groups, voluntary organisations, social enterprises and partner agencies—so CICs are eligible where they are properly constituted. Applicants must demonstrate strong local impact, have appropriate governance (bank account, policies, insurance), and deliver activity within Jigsaw neighbourhoods.
The fund will not support items such as retrospective costs, political or religious activity, individual sponsorship, or projects benefiting only one person.

Grants typically range from £500 up to around £28,000 (depending on area). Most will be smaller grants.

Deadlines
Applications are open on a rolling basis throughout the year until funds are allocated.

Application process
Applications require a clear description of your project, beneficiaries (especially Jigsaw residents), outcomes, and how it aligns with local neighbourhood plans. Smaller bids rely heavily on a concise 200-word summary, while larger bids require a full proposal including budget, delivery plan, and evaluation approach.

Top tips for applying
Strong applications clearly demonstrate direct benefit to Jigsaw residents, align with local neighbourhood priorities, and show measurable outcomes (e.g. improved wellbeing, employment outcomes, or financial resilience). Projects that are resident-led or co-designed tend to be particularly attractive.

Website
https://foundation.jigsawhomes.org.uk/information-article/guidance-notes/