As part of the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations, Creative Lives launched a series of £400 micro-grants to empower community groups across the Bradford District.

The initiative sought to harness the district’s vibrant and diverse grassroots creativity by funding small scale, locally led projects that would allow groups to share their passion, engage their community, and participate in the City of Culture year.

From bell ringing to a Bhajan singing competition, 54 creative groups received funding, representing a cross-section of Bradford’s richly diverse communities. The fund prioritised informal, volunteer-led groups and projects that were welcoming, accessible, and rooted in local identity.

“This fund was about celebrating the culture and incredible creative groups already thriving in Bradford’s communities, and empowering them to try something new and welcome new members. Sometimes, just a little support can create a big ripple.” - Sophie Fraser, Creative Lives 

As well as the £400 micro-grant, groups also received guidance and support on the topics of insurance, safeguarding, and risk assessments, as well as attending networking and marketing sessions.

The Bradford 2025 'Do Your Thing' micro-grants continue to prove that small investments can unlock vast potential in community creativity. Groups turned modest funding into powerful, participatory projects that celebrated identity, connection, and local pride.

As Bradford celebrates its landmark year as UK City of Culture, these projects form the essential grassroots layer of the celebration - authentic, diverse, and driven by the people of Bradford.

You can read about one of the grant applicants, SEND Salaam and their successful partnership with Summat Creative here.