The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has launched the Access to Banking Fund to support projects that improve access to physical banking and cash services across York and North Yorkshire.
The fund aims to address the impact of bank branch closures by supporting long-term solutions that improve access to banking, particularly in rural areas and market towns where services have become less accessible.
Funding can support capital, revenue or blended projects.
Projects can include:
- New high street banking provision
- Services delivered through existing building societies or credit unions
- Banking services co-located within community or high street buildings
- Part-time or pop-up banking provision
- Building refurbishment or room rental
- Staffing costs
- Purchase or hire of equipment and related services
The fund supports the delivery of services rather than feasibility studies or business case development.
Who can apply?
Applications are welcome from individual organisations and partnerships, including:
- Community groups
- Charities
- Business Improvement Districts (BIDs)
- Public bodies
- Building societies
- Credit unions
- Post offices
- Local partnerships
Partnership applications are encouraged, particularly those involving financial service providers and community organisations. A lead organisation must submit the application and enter into the grant agreement.
Applicants do not need to be based in York and North Yorkshire, but all funded activity must take place within the region.
Projects must commit to operating for at least three years and include plans for how services will continue beyond the funded period.
Application deadline is 30 September 2026.
What size grants are available?
Grants of £30,000 to £400,000 (inclusive of VAT) are available, with approximately £1.2 million available through the fund.