The National Archives has reopened its Seed Corn Grant, offering funding of between £500-£5,000 to support early-stage, exploratory projects that spark new ideas and approaches to community engagement with heritage.

This scheme supports risky or experimental projects, such as piloting new engagement methods, building partnerships, or conducting research and development, without the pressure of delivering immediate large-scale outputs. Projects can last up to one year, with all funds required to be spent by December 2027.

Eligible applicants include grassroots organisations and the wider GLAM sector (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) – though Higher Education Institutions cannot lead applications.

The deadline to apply is Friday 17 April 2026. There will be two application rounds for Seed Corn grants, and the panel will review applications within two months of the application deadline.

For further information, including full eligibility criteria, priorities, guidance, and how to apply, please visit the Seed Corn Grants – Portals website (linked for your convenience).