The Tree Council Branching Out Fund
The fund provides small grants to support community-led and school-led tree planting projects, aiming to enable the planting of hundreds of thousands of trees across the UK and encourage local engagement with nature and the environment.
Eligible Organisations
This includes schools, colleges, universities, childcare providers, nurseries, care homes, tenants’ and residents’ associations, parish, town and community councils, Tree Warden Networks, community interest companies (CICs), small registered charities, not-for-profits, and wider community groups.
Suitable Projects
Projects that actively involve young people (up to the age of 21) with the planting of trees and hedges are suitable, including establishing woodland areas, creating wildlife habitats, planting for shade or shelter, and incorporating tree planting into outdoor learning and sustainability programmes.
Application Process
Due to high demand, the fund is currently closed for new applications, but organisations can register their interest to be notified when it reopens.
Successful applicants are usually notified within 5–6 weeks of submitting a completed application, with grants under £500 often processed more quickly.
Grants are paid after planting has taken place, following submission of a claim form, receipts and photographic evidence of planting.
Important Dates
Sign up to be notified for upcoming deadlines here: https://treecouncil.org.uk/grants-and-guidance/our-grants/branching-out-fund/#eoi. All funded projects must be planted and a claim form submitted before midnight on Sunday 15 March 2026.
Funding Range
Overall, grants are available between £250 and £2,500 per application, depending on the scale and requirements of the project.
