Overview

The KCOM Digital Inclusion Grant Programme, created through a partnership between KCOM and HEY Smile Foundation, supports community-led ideas that address digital inclusion across the Humber. It is a relationship-based grant programme focused on listening, supporting and learning from innovative community projects that can drive digital inclusion and measurable change. Grants are released through two funding rounds each year and support ideas with potential to scale and create lasting impact.

Introduction

KCOM are pleased to work in partnership with HEY Smile Foundation to deliver KCOM Digital Inclusion Grants. The programme is designed to support community-led ideas that address digital inclusion across the Humber. Grants supporting a number of projects up to a value of £15,000 may be awarded.

Timescales

KCOM Grant Panel meetings are scheduled twice each year, typically in March and September. Project submission deadlines are usually set approximately one month before each panel meeting.

Funding Priorities

• Addressing digital challenges

• Building stronger communities

• Connecting generations

• Developing digital skills and awareness

Example Projects

• Peer-led support groups requiring equipment to create new activities.

• Promotion of existing activities and removal of barriers to participation.

• Responses to emerging needs within existing support programmes.

Eligibility

• Applicants should be a registered charity, not-for-profit company, or voluntary/community group.
• Activities must engage residents living within Hull, East Riding and North Lincolnshire.
• Applicants should demonstrate an understanding of local need.
• Governing documents, accounts and safeguarding policy should be available.
• A conversation with HEY Smile’s Internal Operations Manager, can be arranged for some applicants to better understand project delivery.
  
  

Grant Guidance

Applicants should read the full grant guidance and frequently asked questions below, before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How do we access the application form?

• Select Apply Now on the KCOM Digital Grant Application

• Submit an online application form.

• If assistance is required, email grants@heysmilefoundation.org

2. When is the deadline for project proposals?

KCOM Grant Panel will meet and assess applications twice a year (February and September). Current deadlines are shown in the grant portal.

3. How much detail do you need about our project?
On your application please give us an outline what your project is and how it will work. While we want to hear about the practicalities of how your project will be delivered, we also want your passion, enthusiasm and creativity to shine through in your proposal.

4. How will applications be assessed?
Each application will first be assessed to ensure it meets the criteria outlined.
Applications will then be shortlisted for full Grant Panel review.

5. Which locations can apply for the funding pots?
Projects must support residents living within Hull, East Riding and North Lincolnshire.

6. Can this be a one off project idea/ funding for equipment / events or does the idea need to be sustainable from the outset?
The programme is seeking community-led ideas that can address priorities, evidence impact and support shared learning. It is unlikely a one-off event or capital spend will support a sustainable change.

7. When must grant funding be spent by?
Funding must be spent within a 12-month period of receiving the grant.