Congratulations to Our Successful Connection Trailblazers Applicants

We’re delighted to announce that two incredible members, Grange Pavilion and Cwm Arian Renewable Energy, have been selected for our Connection Trailblazers development programme! We had a really tough time after receiving many strong applications and only having two grants to award, but these community-focused groups are about to take their work to the next level, and we can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make.

Backed by the National Lottery Community Fund, Connection Trailblazers is a programme designed to help community organisations in the UK strengthen connections in their local areas. It’s part of the Connectors-UK initiative, which stemmed from nearly £1.9 million of National Lottery funding that was granted to Locality (England), DTA Wales, Development Trusts Association Scotland and Development Trusts Northern Ireland to bring community groups together across the four nations. The three year funding period aims to help local organisations connect, share ideas, build resilience, and shape the future of their communities.

As part of this strategy, 15 community groups – including two in Wales – will become Connection Trailblazers. These are pilot projects trying out new, bold ways to build stronger connections in their communities. With so many challenges facing community organisations right now, Trailblazers get the space and support to try something different – whether it’s a brand new idea or a fresh spin on something already working. It’s all about testing, learning, and unlocking the real power of connection. They will receive £20,000 in flexible funding, 12 days of support from a relationship manager, and opportunities for leadership development. We hope that this support will work towards strengthening relationships, empowering communities and fostering equity.

Here’s what the successful organisations have in store.

Grange Pavilion: Building on a Strong Foundation

Based in Cardiff, Grange Pavilion is a venue run by and for the community in the heart of Wales’ most ethnically diverse ward and one of the nation’s most socio-economically deprived areas. Their first five years saw an estimated £25 million in social value and earned over 15 national and international awards. They’ve worked hard to become a hub of inclusion and community spirit, and now they’re ready to move into the next phase of their journey.

Through completing the programme, Grange Pavilion aims to build on its success and create a more sustainable future. The team plans to refine their strategic and operational practices as they transition into a Community Interest Organisation (CIO). The grant money will help them strengthen their foundation, empowering them to continue making a lasting impact in their community. By developing a more collaborative business model with community input, they hope to ensure that future projects are closely aligned with what the local community needs and values.

CARE: Empowering Communities Through Deeper Connections

Cwm Arian Renewable Energy (CARE) are committed to empowering their local communities to create a more sustainable, resilient future. They work across North East Pembrokeshire, South Ceredigion and West Carmarthenshire. They hope that the programme will help them further their mission of collaborating with Welsh-speaking and farming communities. This will be achieved through co-producing projects and ensuring their voices are at the heart of everything they do. By deepening relationships with these groups, CARE hopes to create meaningful collaborations that are built on local priorities and transcend cultural barriers.

Additionally, CARE plans to strengthen its network by connecting with other organisations and partners, which will help share resources, align efforts, and increase the overall impact of their work. They also want to boost their online presence, making it easier for people to get involved and learn about the work they’re doing.

We’re excited to follow their journeys and see how their work develops in the months ahead through collaboration, sustainable growth, and of course, connection.

Trailblazers is part of the Connectors UK Programme. Thanks to National Lottery players, Locality UK has received almost £1.9 million over three years from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK. The funding will support the Connectors UK programme, delivered in partnership with DTA Scotland, DTA Wales and DT Northern Ireland. Through the programme we will bring local community organisations together, to build resilience, share innovative practice and shape their community’s future.