The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) is offering new funding for 2023-2024 which aims to help a range of not-for-profit organisations, including social enterprises, through the early stages of planning to restore and re-use historic buildings.

Project Viability grants of up to £10,000 are available and are normally valid for one year.

The grants typically support an initial assessment of the building’s conditions and repair needs, outline designs sensitive to the heritage that would accommodate the uses being considered, the outline cost of the works needed to repair and convert the building, and surveys or audits that identify ways to improve energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. At the end of the funded work, organisations should be able to decide whether to commit to further costs, risk and effort in developing their project and have a clear idea of the next steps to be taken.

The funding can be used to meet a range of costs, including fees for professionals to undertake initial surveys, designs and costings, advice on legal and governance matters, and help with outline business planning, market testing, and fundraising strategies.

Applications are welcome from across England, but priority will be given to projects that:

• Involve the new use of a vacant historic building.
• Help revive high streets.
• Are in the top 30% most deprived areas.
• Involve and support diverse communities (traditionally underrepresented among heritage asset owners).
• Have a strong focus on environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
• Contribute to local regeneration schemes.

There is a two-stage application process.

Expressions of Interest may be submitted at any time, but applicants should bear in mind that the programme closes to full applications on 26 January 2024.

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