The Supporting Partners Programme, delivered through the Ministry of Defence’s Armed Forces Families Fund (AF3) and managed by the Armed Forces Covenant Trust, is offering grants of £10,000 to £150,000 for projects lasting up to three years.
The programme aims to support partners of serving personnel, including reservists, by addressing the challenges that military life can bring.
What the fund supports
Projects must respond to one or more of the following outcomes:
- Increased skills and confidence for partners, including opportunities to explore new ways of working or change careers
- Improved access to employment support that reflects the realities of service life, such as mobility and separation
- Better understanding among employers and service providers of the challenges faced by Armed Forces families
- Improved mental health and wellbeing, leading to greater confidence and empowerment
Projects should focus on current and emerging needs, and can be local, regional, national or support Armed Forces communities overseas. A strong emphasis is placed on removing barriers to participation and promoting inclusivity.
Who can apply
Applications are open to a range of UK-based organisations, including:
- Registered charities
- Community Interest Companies (CICs)
- Armed Forces units or bases
- Universities and colleges
What funding can cover
Funding can be used for:
- Staff time to deliver the project
- Volunteer costs and reasonable expenses
- Travel costs to enable participation
- Session costs, materials and equipment such as IT or activity supplies
- Accessibility costs including interpreters, translation and accessible formats
- Proportionate organisational overheads
- Partner and collaboration costs
- Evaluation and learning activities
Key dates
- Applications open: 15 June 2026
- Deadline: 23 September 2026 (12 noon)