Grant Manager @Imagination Practice Fund

The Imagination Practice Fund 2026 offers up to £3,000 in funding for practitioners using collective imagination to drive social change, making it a valuable opportunity for creatives, community leaders, and innovators seeking to challenge dominant narratives and build more equitable futures. Designed for individuals and groups working at the intersection of creativity, community, and systems change, this fund supports projects that use imagination as a tool for transformation.

About the Program

The Imagination Practice Fund is an initiative supporting the growing field of collective imagination practice. In 2026, the fund will allocate grants of up to £3,000 to approximately 16 projects. These projects are expected to explore how imagination can disrupt harmful narratives and foster regenerative, inclusive alternatives within communities and systems.

A distinctive feature of this year’s fund is its participatory and community-led approach. Unlike traditional grant processes, the 2026 edition introduces a two-stage application process that actively involves applicants in decision-making. Community shortlisting events will play a central role, allowing participants to collectively evaluate and select promising ideas. This approach not only distributes power but also strengthens collaboration and connection within the community.

Projects supported by the fund may range from experimental artistic practices to community-driven initiatives that translate imaginative ideas into tangible outcomes. All selected projects are expected to complete their activities by Autumn 2026 and document their outcomes for shared learning within the community.

Why This Opportunity Matters

In a time marked by social division, environmental challenges, and systemic inequalities, the need for new ways of thinking has never been more urgent. The Imagination Practice Fund recognizes that imagination is not just creative expression but a critical tool for rethinking systems, policies, and social norms.

By investing in grassroots and experimental projects, the fund helps surface new ideas that may not yet fit into traditional funding frameworks. It also encourages collaboration and shared ownership, strengthening the broader ecosystem of practitioners working toward social transformation.

This opportunity is particularly important for those seeking to influence both institutional systems and community spaces, offering support for initiatives that operate either within or outside established structures.

What Participants Will Gain

Successful applicants will receive financial support of up to £3,000 to develop and implement their projects. Beyond funding, participants benefit from being part of a collaborative and engaged community of practitioners.

The process itself provides valuable opportunities for peer learning, networking, and co-creation. By participating in community shortlisting events, applicants gain exposure to diverse ideas and approaches, strengthening their own practice.

Additionally, funded projects will contribute to a shared body of knowledge through documentation and resource sharing. This visibility can enhance the long-term impact of participants’ work, opening doors to future collaborations and funding opportunities.

Who Can Apply

The fund is open to collective imagination practitioners, including artists, facilitators, activists, community organizers, and interdisciplinary teams. Applicants should be engaged in work that uses imagination as a tool to create social, cultural, or systemic change.

Projects do not need to have fully developed solutions but should demonstrate a clear intention to explore or expand collective imagination practices. Both emerging and established practitioners are encouraged to apply.

Eligible Areas

The opportunity is open to applicants working within communities where collective imagination practices can generate meaningful impact. While no strict geographic limitations are specified, applicants should ensure their work aligns with the fund’s priorities and community focus.

Application Process and Deadline

The application process for the Imagination Practice Fund 2026 consists of two stages. Applicants must first submit a brief initial application by 10 May 2026.

Following this, applicants are required to participate in one of the community shortlisting events scheduled for 12 May or 14 May 2026. Projects selected during this stage will be invited to submit a full application by 7 June 2026.

Final funding decisions will be announced on 22 June 2026. Selected projects should aim to complete their activities by Autumn 2026 and submit documentation by December 2026.

Interested applicants can learn more and apply through the official application link provided by the organizers.

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