Grants of up to £50,000 available to commemorate, educate and celebrate the contribution of the Windrush generation and their descendants

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s (MHCLG) is awarding grants of between £5,000 and £50,000 to support impactful and ambitious Windrush Day projects across England. Grants are being administered by Near Neighbours.

The Windrush Day Grant Scheme 2025 focuses on bringing communities together – across different ages and ethnic backgrounds – to commemorate, celebrate and educate their local area about the contribution of the Windrush Generation and their descendants.

Grants are open to community groups, not-for-profit organisations and local venues to deliver events and activities ahead of and on Windrush Day (22 June) and up to the end of September 2025.

All projects must be community-led and have a positive social impact. Projects must also focus on at least one of four aims. To:

·       Educate people about the Windrush story: building awareness of historical facts and deepen understanding about the Windrush generation and their descendants.

·       Foster a greater sense of national pride and recognition of the historic and ongoing contributions made by the Windrush generation and their descendants to UK society.

·       Develop the skills and entrepreneurial ambitions of young people: inspiring the next generation of young leaders.

·       Celebrate and commemorate the continued contributions of the Windrush generation to the UK.

A 2024 project participant said: “It increased awareness and fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Caribbean community’s role in shaping modern Britain.” And an organiser reflected: “New experiences, enjoyed together, remind us that we share a universal human experience. We find new connections, feel welcomed and build new friendships through new creative activities.”

Sarah Wallace, Director of Programmes and Innovation at Near Neighbours, said: “We believe that better relationships, knowledge and understanding help build better communities for everyone. It is a privilege to work on this project to support Windrush events and celebrate the Windrush generation; to remember and highlight their enormous contribution and inspire generations to come.” 

Lord Wajid Khan, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Faith, Communities and Resettlement, said: “The Windrush Generation and their descendants have left a remarkable legacy on our country and have enriched every aspect of our social, economic and cultural life. We are proud to recognise them by supporting projects which show how they have helped to build and shape our country, ensuring that we continue to cherish and honour their impact.”