Rushcliffe Sports Grant now open for elite athletes in the Borough
Last updated: 16/2/2026
Rushcliffe Borough Council has launched its Rushcliffe Sports Grant today (Monday February 16), inviting elite athletes to apply for funding to support their goals and help achieve their full potential in their chosen sport.
The funding is aimed at athletes competing at international level with 20 grants of £300 available to help reduce some of the financial burden of competing at an advanced level that can often create a barrier to achievement.
Funds may help with costs such as travel, training, accommodation, competition fees and equipment, specialist coaching and other specialist support deemed appropriate by the National Governing Body over the next year.
Priority will be given to those who are or have the potential to compete at the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics, the 2030 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, or the 2026 Commonwealth Games, and those who are in receipt of Universal Credit and/or are in receipt of free school meals.
Eligible applicants can apply before the deadline of Sunday March 15 and must be:
- A permanent resident of Rushcliffe Borough
- 14-25 years old or competing in a disability sport, regardless of age
- Competing in a Sport England recognised sport
- Part of the NGB performance pathway and competing for a Home Nation Country GB, England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and/or in the national training squad in their chosen sport. This varies with different sports but applicants should, at least, be competing with performers from other counties in their sport, in recognised competition
- Amateur status
- Fully endorsed by their National Governing Body and National or International coach who must be suitably qualified and affiliated.
To accompany the application, a confirmation letter from their National Governing Body confirming an athlete’s level of performance is also required.
To find out more about the Rushcliffe Sports Grant – Elite Athletes and to apply online.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Wellbeing, ICT and Member Development Cllr Jonathan Wheeler said: “We’re delighted to invite elite sportspeople across Rushcliffe to apply for the Rushcliffe Sports Grant, helping them to continue their training and competition at the highest level.
“Rushcliffe is a great place for sport and is home to a fantastic talent pool of athletes across a diverse range of sports. For anyone training at elite level, we know it comes with hours of intensive training, commitment and resilience, which is truly inspiring.
“These grants can help towards the significant costs that come with competing and training at high level, whether that’s new sports equipment, travel and competition fees, or accommodation costs associated with travelling to international championships or events.
“We encourage anyone eligible to apply for this grant before March 15!”