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Armed Forces Families Fund – Early Years Programme Now Open
A valuable funding opportunity is now open to support young children from armed forces families, with grants available to strengthen early years provision across the UK.
The Armed Forces Families Fund: Early Years Programme, delivered by Armed Forces Covenant Trust on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, is currently accepting applications for projects that make a meaningful difference to children aged 0–5.
What’s Available
Organisations can apply for grants between £5,000 and £80,000 to deliver standalone projects over a two-year period.
The fund is focused on creating sustainable improvements in early years settings that support armed forces families.
What the Funding Supports
Projects must contribute to at least one of the following:
- Increasing capacity so more service children can access early years settings
- Enhancing indoor and outdoor learning environments
- Developing staff knowledge and skills through targeted training
- Strengthening local partnerships and collaboration
- Improving engagement with families, particularly during times of need
There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based approaches and ensuring that projects are shaped by the needs and experiences of armed forces communities.
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to:
- Early years education and childcare providers working in areas where armed forces families live or work
- Must provide group-based childcare
- Must have at least five service children on roll
- Local authorities delivering training and shared resources across multiple settings
Deadline
Applications close: 15 July 2026
This is the only application round for 2026/27, so early planning is encouraged.
Find Out More and Apply
Why This Matters
Children from armed forces families can experience unique challenges, including mobility, disruption and periods of separation. This funding recognises the importance of stable, high-quality early years support in helping children thrive.
For VCSE organisations and partners working alongside early years providers, this is also an opportunity to:
- Build stronger partnerships
- Support inclusive, community-based provision
- Contribute to long-term, sustainable change
