The Ministry of Defence has announced the opening of applications for its Armed Forces Day Grant 2026, which falls on the 27th June 2026.  The grants aim to support events that honour and thank the Armed Forces community. Eligible organisations such as local councils, voluntary and community organisations, schools, ex-service organisations, and individuals can apply for match-funded grants of up to £10,000, covering up to half of an event’s total cost.

The funding can be used for:

• road closures required to hold an event, including to allow for parades and marches
• decorations, flags and banners
• local or national newspapers/social media/radio advertisements to promote the event
• marshalling, security and first aid arrangements for the event
• insurance
• PA and communications systems such as hand-held radios or other forms of communication for event organiser

However, it cannot cover hospitality, entertainment, military assets, transport costs, or VAT.

Eligible events must include “Armed Forces” in their title, provide free access to members of the Armed Forces community (with limited exceptions), and focus on thanking rather than fundraising or recruitment. Applicants are required to provide detailed plans and supporting documentation, including photographs of the event.

Organisations must first register their event on the Armed Forces Day website to apply. Once approved, a link to the grant application will be provided via email.

The closing date for applications is the 30th April 2026.