Heritage Open Days Grants 2026: Everyday Histories
Coventry City Council is offering small grants to support community-led activity as part of Heritage Open Days 2026, England's largest festival of history and culture.
This year's theme is Everyday Histories. We're looking for projects that uncover, celebrate and share the everyday stories, places and people that make up Coventry's heritage.
At a glance
- grants of £250 to £1,000 per project
- applications open: 16 July 2026
- applications close: 31 July 2026
- events must take place: Friday 11 to Sunday 20 September 2026
Who can apply
- individuals, artists and freelancers
- community and voluntary organisations
- faith groups
- arts and cultural organisations
- registered charities
What we're looking for
Your project must meet at least one of the following priorities:
- collaboration or co-creation with artists, community groups, or partners
- promoting diversity and inclusion, including amplifying underrepresented voices
- engaging young people as participants, audiences, or co-creators
- engaging young adults as participants, audiences, or co-creators
- use of underused or non-traditional spaces, such as community venues or outdoor locations
Funded projects will be asked to collect some simple data as part of their grant agreement, including attendee numbers, audience demographics, and participant feedback. This helps us understand the reach and impact of Heritage Open Days across the city.
Before you apply
You'll need to provide the following as part of your application:
- 2 months of recent bank statements (personal or organisational), to confirm financial legitimacy
- confirmation of Public Liability Insurance, or a note that you'll need guidance
- confirmation you're able to complete a risk assessment, or a note that you'll need guidance
How to apply
Complete the application form and return it to CultureSportsandEvents@coventry.gov.uk by Friday 31 July.
Applications are assessed on eligibility first, then scored against the priorities above. Decisions will be confirmed in August, with a short mobilisation period before events open on Friday 11 September.
Questions?
Contact us at CultureSportsandEvents@coventry.gov.uk before you apply.