Jimbo’s Fund Opens for Applications in Leeds

September 1, 2026 Off By

New funding opportunity aims to support local community organisations

Jimbo’s Fund has opened for applications, offering financial support to community organisations in Leeds that assist people experiencing adversity. The fund was established by the late Jimi Heselden, a local businessman, and continues to provide grants to groups working in the city.

Eligibility and Priorities

The fund particularly encourages applications from organisations that benefit or represent under-represented groups, including:

LGBTQIA+ communities
Racially minoritised individuals
d/Deaf or disabled people

Applicants must demonstrate a track record of operating in Leeds for at least two years and show how their work addresses the needs of the people they support. Priority will be given to projects based in the LS8, LS9, LS14, and LS15 postcode areas.

Organisations are required to request funding that covers at least 50% of the total cost of the proposed activity. Only one application per organisation will be considered. Those who received a three-year grant in 2025 are not eligible to apply in this round.

Types of Activities Supported

The fund supports activities that have been developed in consultation with local participants and respond directly to their needs. Examples of past funded projects include:

Providing food and clothing to asylum seekers
Helping families access baby essentials such as cots and bedding
Street-level youth work for young people disengaged from mainstream services

There is also recognition of the need to support community spaces and address challenges related to food and fuel poverty, especially in the context of rising living costs.