Academies Capital Funding and Support
The Academies Capital Funding and Support programme provides capital grants to improve, repair and expand school buildings across eligible academies, multi-academy trusts, sixth form colleges and voluntary aided schools in England.
Eligible Organisations
Single academy trusts, small and large MATs, sixth form colleges and voluntary aided schools in England may apply, with eligibility depending on the institution’s size and status within DfE criteria.
Suitable Projects
Projects may include building maintenance, condition improvements, health and safety works, minor refurbishments, facility upgrades and, where justified by demand, expansion to increase pupil places.
Application Process
Eligible bodies receive Devolved Formula Capital automatically, while applicants for the Condition Improvement Fund must submit bids through the DfE’s online system. Large MATs receive direct capital allocations determined by the DfE.
Important Dates
CIF bidding for the 2026–2027 financial year is open to invited eligible schools. SCA eligibility notifications are issued each autumn by the DfE. Funding operates on a financial-year basis (e.g., 2025–2026 allocations published by DfE).
Funding Range
Funding levels vary by scheme: DFC offers formula-based allocations to individual schools. CIF awards depend on the scale of condition or expansion needs. Large MAT allocations are set by the DfE based on estate size and priorities.
