Local area activation fund
Support for Hackney town centres and high streets to thrive
The Local Area Activation Fund is an initiative from Hackney Council to support its town centres and high streets, part of its UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) grant from the UK Government.
Building on the success of its first round, this second round (2.0) fund is open to Hackney-based business collectives, associations or partnerships that want to support the economy in their local area. Specifically, funded activities should enhance local places where people want to spend time and money, day and night.
This includes events in the Borough’s town centres and neighbourhoods. The aim of the events are to galvanise the local community, creating better connections between residents and businesses, and drive additional footfall into the town centres, which will deliver an economic uplift to local businesses.
We have aligned the fund to Hackney’s vision for an inclusive economy set out in our Economic Development Plan 2025-2030, and in response to local business feedback for more area-focused comms support from the council.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Sunday 21 June 2026
Apply for £2,000 - £4,000 to fund a new initiative or event on your high street.
Who can apply for the funding?
Hackney-based business associations or partnerships
At least two independent, Hackney-based businesses, charities, not-for-profits, social enterprises or CICs working together. You cannot apply as a single business.
Applicants that each have less than 250 employees and have been actively trading for at least two years; no dormant or dissolved organisations (this applies to all members of any association, collective or partnership).
Applicants that are recognised Hackney‘s Responsible Businesses or are willing to commit to signing the charter.
Applicants that hold valid insurance for running events or activities with members of the public
Successful round one LAAF applicants may apply but we will prioritise previously unfunded applicants where the strength of the application is otherwise even.
What can you spend the funding on?
Applicants can use the funding for:
Activities that increase visitors and/or improve accessibility/ inclusivity to an area, high street or town centre in the London borough of Hackney.
New activities and initiatives only, we won’t fund past activities or retrospective costs.
Proposed activities should benefit Hackney businesses.
Revenue costs, like events, promotional materials, digital and social media or project management. No capital costs (e.g., investment in long-term assets) are applicable.
Applications will only be considered for activities which can be completed by 27 September 2026.
Do you have any questions? Please email Business Support@hackney.gov.uk