Grants Now Open for September’s North Paddington Canalside Festival
The North Paddington Canalside Festival is set to return this September – and local groups, charities and small businesses are being offered the chance to shape it. With grants available from £500 to £5,000, organisers are inviting proposals for events that celebrate culture, biodiversity, wellbeing and community along the Grand Union Canal.
The new scheme is part of a broader push to reconnect communities with the Grand Union Canal – a 2.5km stretch running from Ladbroke Grove to Little Venice. Events funded through the scheme will form part of the North Paddington Canalside Festival, taking place across four weekends in September.
From live music and art workshops to wellbeing sessions and nature walks, the aim is to bring people together through events that celebrate culture, biodiversity, health, and local heritage.
What Kind of Events Can Apply?
Applicants are encouraged to think creatively. Funding is available for projects that respond to at least one of four themes:
- Culture and creativity – arts, local storytelling, performances
- Biodiversity and environment – nature-based events or workshops
- Health and wellbeing – yoga, fitness, mindfulness, food and nutrition
- Safety and accessibility – events that encourage inclusion and confidence around the canals
Applications are open to charities, community groups, local businesses, and organisations, with ideas ranging from one-off events to full weekend takeovers.
How to Apply
The application process is simple, and grants are available for anything from materials and artist fees to hiring space or equipment.
A drop-in support session will also be held on Wednesday 19th June from 3–5pm at Grand Junction, Rowington Close, for those wanting help refining their idea or navigating the form.
The deadline to apply is 9am, Monday 30th June, and applicants will be informed in July. Successful projects will run between 1st and 29th September, across the four festival weekends.
Thinking Locally
This funding opportunity is part of wider investment in the North Paddington canalside — designed to make the area greener, safer and more welcoming. For many, it’s a chance to take ownership of a space that’s long been overlooked, and to invite others to see it with fresh eyes.
Whether you’re a resident with an idea, a local artist looking to collaborate, or part of a grassroots group wanting to do more, this is a chance to shape what the future of the canal looks like.
For more information and to apply for a grant, visit the Westminster Council’s application page before the 30th June deadline.
Want to get involved?
If you’ve got an idea that could bring people together this September, now’s the time to make it happen.
Check EyeOnLondon Westminster throughout June for festival updates, funding tips, and stories from the canal.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
