The Kent Downs National Landscape offers a range of funding opportunities that support landowners, farmers, communities, organisations, and partners to care for, enhance, and connect people with this nationally protected landscape.
All our funding programmes share the same purpose: to support projects that benefit People, Place, Climate, and Nature across the Kent Downs.
Whether you are restoring habitats, improving access, reducing carbon emissions, or helping people connect with the landscape, there may be funding available to support your ideas.
How it works
1. Share your idea
Submit a short Expression of Interest (EOI) or contact us to discuss your project.
2. We review your project
We assess your idea against Kent Downs priorities and identify the most suitable funding opportunity.
3. We support development
If your project is a good fit, we may work with you to help refine and strengthen your proposal.
4. Decision and delivery
Your project is taken through the appropriate funding approval process, and we support you through delivery if successful.
You do not need to choose a funding stream; we will do this with you!
What we support
We fund projects that deliver real, lasting benefits for the Kent Downs, including:
- Nature recovery and biodiversity enhancement
- Climate change mitigation and resilience
- Sustainable farming and land management
- Improved access to the landscape
- Education, engagement and community connection
- Innovative approaches to environmental challenges
Who can apply
Applications are welcome from:
- Farmers and land managers
- Landowners
- Community groups and charities
- Local authorities and public bodies
- Environmental organisations and partnerships
- Businesses (where there is clear public or environmental benefit)
Submit your idea
Got an idea but not sure if it’s ready? Submit an EOI — we’ll help shape it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to know which fund to apply for?
No. You do not need to choose a specific funding programme before getting in touch. We offer a single application route and will work with you to identify the most appropriate funding opportunity for your project.
Can I submit an early-stage idea?
Yes. Early-stage ideas are welcome. An Expression of Interest (EOI) can be used to start a conversation even if your project is still developing or you do not yet have full details confirmed.
Do I need match funding?
Some funding programmes may require match funding, while others may not. This will depend on the type of project and the funding source. We can advise you on any funding requirements during the application process.
Can projects run across multiple years?
Some projects may be able to run across more than one financial year, depending on the funding programme, project scale and available budget. This can be discussed as part of project development and approval.
Who can help me develop my project?
If your project is a good fit, a member of the Kent Downs team may work with you to help refine and strengthen your proposal, including identifying suitable funding opportunities and developing project outcomes.
Can organisations partner on one application?
Yes. Partnership applications are encouraged where projects deliver shared benefits or involve collaborative working across organisations, communities or landholdings.