KCOM Digital Inclusion Grants closing Wednesday 18th March

The KCOM Digital Inclusion Grant Programme is a powerful initiative to connect communities and boost digital inclusion across the region. Community groups are already seeing the positive impact these grants can make.

As part of a three-year funding commitment, telecoms leader KCOM has pledged to provide individual grants of up to £15,000. This support plays a key role in their mission to advance online inclusion, strengthen communities, bridge generational divides, and improve digital skills and awareness across Hull, the East Riding, and North Lincolnshire.

At HEY Smile Foundation, we believe that empowering people with access to digital resources and education can create a brighter, more connected future for everyone. We work to ensure funding reaches organisations best placed to deliver real change, aligned with KCOM’s ambition to drive meaningful transformation.

Grant funding is awarded at the discretion of an assessment panel, with several projects supported through grants of up to £15,000.

The application window for this round is now open and closes on 18th March 2026. Grant winners will be announced shortly after the closing date.

Applications can be made through Beecan – HEY Smile Foundation’s online grant-giving platform, which brings funders, community groups and charities together.

What will be funded?

Projects should deliver measurable impact against one or more of these priorities:

Addressing digital challenges (access, affordability, confidence)

Building stronger communities through digital inclusion

Connecting generations with intergenerational activities

Developing digital skills & awareness for those who need it most

Who can apply?

Registered charities

Constituted community & voluntary organisations / clubs

Not-for-profit companies or CICs

Faith groups & community benefit societies

Charitable Incorporated Organisations

You’ll need a governing document, a board/committee (min. 3 unrelated), a bank account with two unrelated signatories, and appropriate safeguarding policies.