SRFU GRANTS PROGRAMME
The SRFU Grants Programme for 2026-27 for university clubs is now open until 30 October 2026. Whether you need support to tackle a specific challenge or funding to grow and develop your club, the SRFU Development Fund and Support Fund are here to help.
Clubs may submit one application only to either the Support Fund or Development Fund.
Examples of how previous grants have been used by universities can be found here.
SUPPORT FUND
Funding Available: Up to £250 per club
This grant is designed to support university clubs through the season and ensure their programs still run even in difficult financial times. This can be the buying of basic equipment, supporting a student coach, travel to non-BUCS fixtures and facility hire. This funding is designed to keep club activity and non-BUCS rugby afloat. You can apply for funding to cover the following:
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Facility hire, match organisation
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Training course, qualifications, mentoring support
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Support for students playing at local clubs
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Introductory session to attract new/more diverse participants
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Basic equipment, balls, cones, bibs, training kit
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Travel costs to an additional fixture (non-BUCS or league)
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Costs for entering a local festival or sevens competition
Application Timeline
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Applications close Friday 30 October 2026
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The SRFU Grants Award Panel will review applications and may contact applicants to clarify details following the application deadline
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Decisions will be communicated by w/c 16 November 2026
Who can apply
All members of the Students RFU can apply, applications will be prioritised from institutions who are not funded RFU partners and those that haven't recently received an SRFU Grant.
Applications will be assessed on: Demonstrated need, benefit to students & value for money.
How to apply
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Complete the application form below.
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When completing the form, please consider how much funding is genuinely required and provide details of the anticipated expenditure.
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The SRFU will make payment to successful applicants upon receipt of an invoice.
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Successful applicants must complete and return a Grant Report no later than 1 March 2027. This is a condition of funding.
Should you have any questions please e-mail info@studentsrfu.com.
DEVELOPMENT FUND
Funding Available: Up to £250 per club
This grant is designed to help university rugby clubs launch a new initiative, programme, event or idea that increases participation, attracts new volunteers, or strengthens links with local clubs, organisations and communities. You can apply for funding to cover the following:
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Introductory sessions to attract new or more diverse participants
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Development programmes or events designed to recruit new players or volunteers
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A series of sessions or events connecting the university club with an external club or organisation
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Hosting a development festival or camp
Application Timeline
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Applications close Friday 30 October 2026
-
The SRFU Grants Award Panel will review applications and may contact applicants to clarify details following the application deadline
-
Decisions will be communicated by w/c 16 November 2026
Who can apply
All members of the Students RFU can apply, applications will be prioritised from institutions who are not funded RFU partners and those that haven't recently received an SRFU Grant.
Applications will be assessed on: Impact, deliverability & sustainability
How to apply
-
Complete the application form below.
-
When completing the form, please consider how much funding is genuinely required and provide details of the anticipated expenditure.
-
The SRFU will make payment to successful applicants upon receipt of an invoice.
-
Successful applicants must complete and return a Grant Report no later than 1 March 2027. This is a condition of funding.
