The Prince's Countryside Fund

The Royal Countryside Fund (RCF), formerly The Prince’s Countryside Fund and rebranded in 2023 under King Charles III's approval, was founded in 2010 to secure a sustainable future for UK family farms and rural communities. Its mission empowers rural resilience through locally led solutions to economic, social, and environmental challenges, guided by values of collaboration, practical support, and protection of rural assets. Distinctively royal-backed and UK-wide, RCF emphasises the interdependence of thriving farms, communities, and land, having invested over £12.5 million in 500+ projects supporting 5,000+ farms.

RCF funds initiatives enhancing family farm viability (e.g., business adaptation, succession planning, skills training for youth), rural emergency aid, and community cohesion via economic diversification, mental health support, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure like village shops or transport. Key programmes include Supporting Rural Communities Grants, Farm Resilience, and an Emergency Fund, backing capacity-building, leadership training, research, and community enterprises in isolated areas (populations under 4,000) lacking services.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, CICs, social enterprises, or similar not-for-profits with turnover under £500,000, operating UK-wide (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland; excluding Cumbria/Northumberland this round). Grants range £10,000–£25,000 (up to 24 months) for projects, core costs, capacity-building, or refurbishments starting within six months. Apply via two-stage process: EOI (video + online form) by 21 February 2025 (opens 10 January), then full applications 8 March–5 April for May decisions. No funding for individuals, private businesses, or non-rural work; uniquely champions grassroots rural self-reliance.