The VALOUR Recognised Centres (VRCs) Development Fund, funded by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs within the Ministry of Defence, is now open for applications. The programme will award grants of up to £1 million to organisations providing in-person guidance and support for veterans, and later, the wider armed forces community.
The fund is administered by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and is aimed at experienced organisations or consortiums able to deliver a set of core services. As a minimum, each VRC must offer guidance and support in health, housing and employment. Applicants are also encouraged to show how they will provide support in additional areas such as finance, wellbeing, welfare, community integration and other cross-cutting needs. Many organisations may already be delivering elements of this work and can build on existing provision.
Centres must work collaboratively with statutory and voluntary services in their area and follow a ‘no wrong door’ approach, ensuring individuals can access the most appropriate support.
Eligibility
Organisations may apply if they have experience delivering complex projects and working in partnership with others. Eligible applicants include:
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Registered charities with experience supporting veterans
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CICs established for more than three years, with evidence of strong governance and relevant delivery experience
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Local government bodies
Detailed eligibility information is set out in the programme guidance.
Funding Available
The fund will operate across two rounds:
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Round One: Grants between £500,000 and £1 million for projects delivered over three years. This round is aimed at organisations or consortiums able to move quickly and those already operating veteran support centres.
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Round Two: Expected to open in spring 2026 (subject to confirmation). Grants up to £500,000 will be available, with the possibility of larger awards in some areas.
Programme Outcomes
Projects must demonstrate how they will deliver all of the following:
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Reduce the postcode lottery by improving equity of access and consistency of service quality
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Strengthen coordination and collaboration between local statutory and non-statutory partners
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Improve understanding of need through better data sharing relating to veterans and the armed forces community
Deadlines
Applications for Round One must be submitted by midday on 14 January 2026. Decisions are expected by the end of March 2026.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the programme guidance in full before applying: VALOUR Recognised Centres Development Fund : Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust