The Cash4Clubs 2026 programme will give 250 eligible clubs grants worth £2,000 each, supporting equipment, coaching hire, training sessions, and marketing actions.

Key Points

• Flutter UKI introduced a £500,000 Cash4Clubs fund, giving 250 grants valued at £2,000 each.
• A survey showed 43% of UK grassroots sports clubs stopped services due to funding shortages.
• The programme aims to sustain clubs and help underrepresented groups in sport.

Flutter UKI Launches £500,000 Fund to Support Grassroots Sports

Flutter UKI declared the start of a £500,000 ($682,000) Cash4Clubs fund to assist grassroots sports bodies across the UK and Ireland. The launch followed research showing many community clubs under financial pressure, with 43% cancelling services due to higher costs and 22% saying they may close within one year. Cash4Clubs, active since 2008 and distributing nearly £7m, will award 250 clubs with £2,000 grants.

The money can cover equipment purchases, pay for coaches, increase training sessions, or fund marketing to gain members. Well-known sporting names back the scheme, such as Alan Shearer and Peter Crouch, who ask clubs to apply. Peter Crouch called the grants a lifeline and said: “An extra £2,000 can keep facilities open, cover equipment, or support training volunteers.” He also said, “These clubs give people belonging, build confidence, and help them stay active, so Cash4Clubs matters, and people should apply.”

Grassroots Sports Grants Transform Local Communities

Past examples include Sunderland Deaf Darts Society and Parkinson’s Ninja, a group using exercise to help people with Parkinson’s disease. Betfair Ambassador Alan Shearer stated: “On and off the field, I saw sport transform lives through power.” He also added: “Local grassroots clubs are essential community assets, and these grants give support with a strong impact, especially in deprived areas.”

Last year’s programme supported more than 200 clubs and reached 32,000 people, with most grants directed to underrepresented groups like women, disabled athletes, diverse communities, and LGBTQ+ participants. Applications for this year’s grants stay open until 8 December on the Cash4Clubs website.