Reclaiming Black history narratives: Apply now for Black History 365 funding

Applications for the Royal Borough of Greenwich Black History 365 (BH365) grant programme (2024 to 2025) are now open. 

In line with the national Black History Month theme, this year we’re asking for applications for activities that explore the idea of ‘reclaiming Black history narratives.’, shining a light on untold stories and correcting historical inaccuracies that undermine the achievements of African and Caribbean communities in contemporary Britain. 

If you are part of a community group or organisation who wants to deliver arts or heritage activities to celebrate Black history and culture, you have until 5pm on Sunday 28 July to apply for a BH365 grant. You must deliver events from October 2024 to September 2025.  

We encourage applicants to work in partnership with each other, to widen engagement with local communities and increase collaborative working to showcase the project in public spaces. 

Councillor Ann-Marie Cousins, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “We’re committed to listening to our communities and making our residents feel heard. That's why, following a successful pilot in 2023, this year’s Black History 365 programme will once again be co-commissioned by a Community Advisory Panel of people who live, work, or study in the borough.  

“The BH365 programme plays a crucial role in celebrating the culture and heritage of our African and Caribbean diaspora communities. It stimulates creativity, knowledge and learning, and engages and connects our residents with the borough’s cultural heritage. I am particularly pleased with the theme of 'reclaiming Black history narratives' for the next year of this programme. 

“If you’re part of a group that provides arts, culture and heritage activities to a broad range of residents in your community, visit our website to find out if you’re eligible to apply for a grant to fund your project.” 

The aim of the BH365 programme is to: 

• support organisations and groups to create a range of engaging performances, educational activities and events that showcase the diverse culture and heritage of our Black diaspora communities 
• strengthen and deepen our understanding of Black history and the role of the African and Caribbean communities who have shaped the Royal Borough of Greenwich and the UK. 

Funding is available to support a range of arts, cultural and heritage activities. These could include: 

• music, dance and theatre performances and workshops 
• film screenings 
• discussions 
• historical and educational events 
• visual art installations and exhibitions 
• craft workshops 
• open mic, poetry and spoken word showcases 
• science showcases. 

For support and advice on completing your application, join our online funding support session on Monday 15 July, 12 noon via Teams. 

For more information on applying or to book a slot at one of our funding support sessions, visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/bh365