Support for High Streets

Thriving High Streets Fund - round two

The Thriving High Streets Fund supported projects to keep our high streets thriving, offering grants from £1,000 to £25,000 for businesses and voluntary sector groups.

What the Thriving High Street Fund was for 

The fund was launched to help high streets adapt to a range of challenging economic factors. Aiming for thriving, adaptable spaces that are fit for the future. We looked for inspirational ideas, brought to life through projects in the borough’s high streets or town centres, and designed to help shops and businesses grow and thrive again.

These projects aimed to attract more people to Southwark’s high streets and town centres, and to increase spending in the area.

All projects needed to:

• make a positive contribution to help local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) thrive
• make our high streets more inclusive, particularly for low-income and Black, Asian and minority-ethnic communities

Funding applications were sought for projects under five themes:

• a greener Southwark
• cost of living crisis
• healthy and safe high streets
• cultural / community events
• Southwark Stands Together

Why we launched the Thriving High Streets Fund

Brexit, the cost of living crisis, and the impact of COVID-19 have had a significant impact on our town centres and high streets. They have made pre-existing problems worse, creating new challenges. Therefore the protection and development of high streets has been prioritised.

Who could apply to the fund 

Partnerships that brought together diverse skills and expertise were particularly encouraged. Eligible applicants based in Southwark included:

• business networks
• groups from the arts or creative sectors
• educational establishments such as a schools, colleges or universities
• voluntary sector, community or resident groups
• individual businesses (if representative and supported by other local businesses)

How much money could be applied for 

Applications were accepted for amounts between £1,000 and £25,000. However, applications over £25,000 could have been considered under special circumstances.

How to apply for the Thriving High Streets Fund 

Round two closed for applications on 3 March 2024 and grants have been awarded to 10 brilliant organisations. Please watch this space for further updates.

Page last updated: 04 July 2024