Youth Matters Fund: delivery partner competition
Information on the Youth Matters Fund delivery partner competition and how to apply.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
Summary/purpose
DCMS is seeking a single grant recipient (or consortium) to lead the Youth Matters Fund (YMF). This £400 million+ programme is committed to delivering significant, long-term change in youth provision across underserved areas in England.
Eligibility
We are seeking a charitable, benevolent, or philanthropic organisation with the capacity, capability, and experience to manage a grant programme of this scale and complexity. Applicants must be able to demonstrate:
- expertise in grant management and the youth sector landscape
- robust safeguarding policies and financial management systems
- a strong commitment to meaningful youth engagement in project design and decision-making
Objectives
Background
Delivering significant, long-term change in youth provision across underserved areas in England.
Overview
The YMF aims to achieve rapid improvements in the quality and level of youth services, long-term sustainability of youth sector facilities, and meaningful local partnerships that drive sector growth.
Role of the delivery partner
The successful recipient (single or consortium) will lead the programme, manage the grant allocation, and oversee large-scale youth service delivery.
Grant value
The Youth Matters Fund (YMF) is a commitment of over £400 million.
Expected capabilities of grant recipient
Expected capabilities of the grant recipient are:
- track record of managing large-scale grant programmes
- proven ability to manage complex youth sector landscapes in localities
- robust safeguarding and financial governance frameworks
- capacity to lead strategic youth engagement
How to apply
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Read the full guidance on this page.
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Visit the Find a Grant platform to register.
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Complete and submit your application online through the Find a Grant portal (search ‘Youth Matters Fund’).
For clarification questions, contact ymf@dcms.gov.uk
Dates
- Applications open: Friday 10 July 2026
- Clarification questions deadline: Midday, 24 July 2026
- Applications close: 23:59, Friday 21 August 2026
Supporting information
The contents of this documentation are subject to change. This does not constitute a commitment to award a grant. Applicants are responsible for their own costs incurred in the application process.