Partners Programme - Phase 7 (2025-30)

Applications for our Partners Programme, which provides funding to projects that conserve and enhance biodiversity and the aquatic environment, are now open.

About the Partners Programme

Running since 1998, the programme has achieved some notable conservation successes, made an innovative and valuable contribution to biodiversity and catchments, and helped contribute to our goal of conserving and enhancing wildlife in our region.  

How much can you apply for?

Groups can apply for four grants of £25,000 per annum for five years between 2025 and 2030.

Projects must deliver improvements for biodiversity, water quality and catchments across the area we serve.

Image of a river flowing with trees overhead

Who can apply?

The funding is aimed at organisations that can carry out long-term conservation work, such as wildlife trusts, river trusts and catchment partnerships.

For a full list of who can apply, please view our Partners Programme guidelines.

What should your project aim to achieve?

We are seeking innovative, new or existing projects which we can work in partnership with to:

  • contribute to our Strategic Direction Statement target for biodiversity (double our contribution to the regions biodiversity)
  • meet our Biodiversity Action Plan outcomes, with a focus on species diversity, habitats (particularly priority/protected species or habitats) or local mature recovery strategy implementation
  • support the delivery of Environment Act requirements and targets
  • contribute to achieving Water Framework Directive targets and/or a catchment based approach
  • support engagement with customers and the community to raise awareness and influence behaviour change around water, biodiversity and the environment.

Please read our Partners Programmes guidelines for more information about what we will expect from our partners.

Close up image of wildflowers

When do applications close?

Applications close on 3 January 2025.

Funding is then expected to be distributed from April 2025 and granted annually for the five years of the Programme.

How to apply

We are happy to answer any questions and discuss ideas for projects. Please email BAP@wessexwater.co.uk to talk to us and to request an application form.