To mark its 20th anniversary, Laughology has launched the 2026 Happiness Fund, offering £20,000 to support neighbourhood-based projects which help build happy, strong, and resilient communities across the UK. Small, not‑for‑profit organisations can apply for grants to establish new groups and activities that improve mental health and wellbeing, inclusion, learning and skills development, and strengthen local connections.

The Happiness Fund focuses on projects which bring people together and create opportunities for positive social interaction. This could include new community clubs, peer support groups, intergenerational activities, creative learning projects, or initiatives that help people build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging.

Applicants must demonstrate how their proposed project or activity can continue beyond the grant period. Successful applications will clearly outline how the project will become self‑sustaining, either through community ownership, earnt income, volunteer‑led models, or by attracting longer‑term funding from other sources.

The 2026 programme will run across two funding cycles, with each round awarding two grants of £5,000. This structure aims to provide multiple opportunities for groups across the UK to apply and secure support for new initiatives designed to improve local wellbeing and community resilience. This fund has been designed by Laughology as an opportunity for grassroots organisations to trial new ideas, test community‑led approaches, or grow small‑scale activities into sustainable, long‑term programmes.

The deadline for applications is Friday 27 March 2026.

For further information, including how to apply, please visit the dedicated 2026 Happiness Fund page (linked for your convenience).