Eight groundbreaking projects are set to transform Unitarian communities across the country, thanks to the first grants from the new Innovation Fund.

From supporting children’s spirituality to a new programme of vibrant spiritual events, the projects show the breadth of innovation happening within Unitarian communities.

The funded projects:

Chowbent Unitarian Chapel was awarded an Innovation Grant to launch a bi-monthly children and young people’s programme, jointly funded with the North and East Lancashire Unitarian Mission. Qualified educators will deliver sessions shaped by pupils at the neighbouring primary school and local families.

Unitarian Transformers received three Development Grants to support congregations in Chorley, Warwick and Shrewsbury. They will mentor leaders and help congregations try new approaches beyond the Sunday-centric model of worship, giving energy and confidence to meet local needs.

Heartspace, led by Rev. Kate Dean with ministers and volunteers, secured a Development Grant to pilot weekly spirituality events in unused space at Essex Hall. This new hub in central London will host inclusive gatherings such as Mystic of the Month, explorations of Samhain, inspiring music, breathwork and mindfulness.

A national roll-out of Soul Deep, a course of small-group spiritual exploration, received a Development Grant to provide admin and communications support so more congregations can access the course, with promotion and coordination to meet national demand.

Cambridge Unitarian Church has a Development Grant for Games, Recipes & Equality – a two-day workshop using playful games, creativity and food sharing to explore shame and compassion, fostering inclusive community conversations.

Lewisham Unity has been awarded a Development Grant to identify the needs of the local LGBTQ+ community. Building on existing NHS and council partnerships, they will create a dedicated space for spiritual wellness.

Encouraging bold thinking

Nick Butler-Watts, Innovation Fund manager, said:

“We know the spiritual landscape is continually changing, and we need to adapt and try new things. The Innovation Fund gives us the freedom to experiment, explore bold ideas, take risks together, and share what we learn.

“These projects are discovering fresh ways of worshipping, gathering and being community, while also creating practical solutions to everyday challenges.

“Unitarians, rooted in dissent and radicalism, are known for thinking differently and challenging the norm. The Innovation Fund helps bring those visionary ideas into being, shaping new possibilities for spiritual communities in 21st-century Britain.”

Your project could be next

The Innovation Fund offers grants of up to £125,000 (up to £25,000 for up to five years) for visionary projects that help Unitarian communities grow, connect and build a more inclusive future. Development Grants of £1,000–£5,000 are also available for pilots and feasibility studies.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until Summer 2030, with quarterly assessment panels reviewing proposals.

Ready to transform your community?

Contact Nick Butler-Watts for support with your application, or submit an expression of interest through the online form.

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