Applications are now open for the James Brown & Sons Community Spark Awards.

The awards support local charities and community organisations making a positive difference within the communities served by James Brown & Sons Funeral Directors.

Grants Available
• Grants from £750 – £1,250
• Local community projects only
• Applications from charities, community groups and not-for-profit organisations

Funding Priorities
Projects supporting:
• Health and wellbeing
• Education
• Employment opportunities
• Poverty and social deprivation
• Community engagement

How to Apply
Please download and complete:
• Spark Awards Application Form
• Spark Awards Guidance Notes
Completed applications should be emailed to: jamesbrowncommunityfund@funeralpartners.com

Before You Apply
Please ensure you:
• Read the guidance notes carefully
• Meet the eligibility criteria
• Submit the latest application form

£1,250 Spark Grants: Applications open 18^th May 2026 – close 14^th June 2026 and 27^th July 2026 – close 23^rd August 2026

James Brown & Sons has been committed to serving the people of greater Belfast since 1904. With support from parent company, Funeral Partners, we launched the James Brown & Sons Community Fund in 2022. We have been running the Community Fund ever since, to benefit the local communities in the heart of Belfast and the surrounding areas. So far, more than £80,000 has been given to various community-focused groups.

A New Approach to Community Funding in 2026
In 2026, the James Brown & Sons Community Fund is introducing a new funding model designed to create deeper, longer-term impact in the communities we serve.

In previous years, the fund operated across three funding cycles, offering multiple smaller grants of up to £2,000 throughout the year. From 2026, we are taking a more focused approach, with two distinct funding opportunities launched at different points in the year.

This new approach was officially launched at Parliament Buildings on 24 February 2026, at a special event hosted by Minister Gordon Lyons, Minister for Communities.

Funding Available

£10,000 Community Impact Grant.

Applications are now closed.

This annual grant is designed to support one strategic project delivering sustained, measurable benefit over a minimum 12-month period. It is intended for organisations with a clear understanding of local need and the capacity to deliver long-term community impact.

Spark Awards

Applications open on 18th May 2026

Our £1,250 Spark Awards support smaller, grassroots projects and shorter-term initiatives.