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Smile Soup 2026: Eat, Pitch, Vote – and Make a Difference
Smile Soup Event Set to Bring Community Together
We’re delighted to be hosting a Smile Soup Event — a warm, welcoming gathering designed to bring people together, spark conversation, and strengthen connections across our community.
Smile Soup is open to absolutely everyone in the community.
Smile Soup is about creating space for local people and community groups to share ideas that could make a difference. Those attending will hear short pitches, share a meal, and vote for the project they’d like to support. The funds raised on the night will go directly to the winning idea. It’s also an opportunity to build connections, raise awareness of local work, and celebrate the strengths and creativity that exist across our communities.
What is Smile Soup?
Smile Soup is simple:
- Eat Soup – Your ticket includes delicious soup and bread.
- Hear Pitches – Local groups present their project ideas.
- Cast Your Vote – Each ticket holder gets one vote to decide which project receives the funding pot.
It’s community decision-making in action — accessible, engaging and empowering.
Want to Pitch Your Idea?
Community groups, charities, and individuals are invited to apply for a pitching slot at the first event on Wednesday 25th March. This is your chance to share your vision directly with the community — and let them decide.
We’re looking for:
- Community-focused projects
- Youth initiatives
- Creative ideas that tackle local issues
- Activities that improve wellbeing, connection or opportunity
- New or growing grassroots ideas
- A resident with a brilliant idea for their community.
All pitches will be considered for shortlisting.
How to Propose a Pitch
1. Submit a short outline of your project idea (max 1 page).
2. Include:
- What your project will do
- Who it will benefit
- What impact it will make locally
3. Be ready to deliver a short, engaging pitch on the night (usually 3–5 minutes).
For pitch submission details and deadlines, contact the Smile team directly on community@heysmilefoundation.org
Tickets can be bought online, in person and there are limited on the door tickets.
We would encourage everyone to purchase tickets in advance.
Online tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite - Please note that an additional online admin fee applies. This ensures that 100% of the ticket price goes directly to the winning project.
Below you will find details of how to purchase from the Hey Smile Team - Cash only. (please have the correct amount where possible)
In-Person Ticket Sales
You can also buy tickets in person at the following locations and times:
Bridlington CYP
Wednesday 25th February - 11am – 12pm (Calvin Boyd)
The Crown Community Centre
Tuesday 3rd March, 10am – 3pm (Dan Rothery)
Tuesday 10th March, 10am – 2pm (Calvin Boyd)
Wednesday 18th March, 1:30pm – 3pm (Calvin Boyd)
Tuesday 17th March, 10am – 3pm (Dan Rothery)
Tuesday 17th March, 10am – 3pm (Dan Rothery)
Friday 20th March, 10am – 3pm (Dan Rothery)
The Bridlington Collective Meeting – The Crown
Wednesday 18th March, 10am – 12pm (Calvin Boyd)
Salvation Army
Monday 9th March 2026 (Dan Rothery)
Why Attend?
Smile Soup isn’t just a funding event — it’s a celebration of local passion and partnership.
It’s a space where:
- VCSE organisations connect with residents
- Young people see their ideas valued
- Community members directly influence funding decisions
- Collaboration starts around the table
By attending, you’re not just enjoying soup — you’re actively shaping what happens next in our communty.
Support Local. Have Fun. Make a Difference.
Whether you’re pitching, voting, or simply coming along to support, Smile Soup 2026 promises to be a vibrant, inspiring evening that showcases the power of community-led action.
We can’t wait to see you there
