ECF Support for Grassroots Chess Development
ECF Grassroots Tranche 6
A reminder that Tranche 6 ends on 1st December 2025. In Tranche 5 there were successful grants in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire for items such as sets,
boards, promotional material, display boards, and a giant Chess set and board. There are still funds available for the East of England.
The link below takes you to a recent update on the ECF Website and includes the updated prospectus which now sets out some of the criteria we apply when
considering applications. As always if you have any questions or wish for advice then contact me: j.r.wickham@btinternet.com .
Next Grassroots assessment - English Chess Federation
Some things to consider:
1. Provide as much details as you can on the application form and answer all questions
2. Ensure you indicate the amount required and the date it you need it
3. Make sure you sell your initiative and justify the request
4. The funds are for new initiatives and not to replace a clubs old stocks (e.g. clocks or sets and boards where the old items are still serviceable)
However, where a club has a reason to acquire new equipment which cannot be funded via club funds then an application may be considered but you need to make a case for it and justify it.
5. We are looking for sustainability and may seek a buy in by not making a 100% grant.
A reminder about the details of the initiative below.:
I am the Coordinator for the East of England which comprises 6 counties (Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex) and all applications to the fund are sent to me for approval. In cases where I have a conflict of interest I have some assistants to whom I can refer.
Individuals, Clubs and Organisations can apply using the application form https://britchess.wufoo.com/forms/ecf-grassroots-chess-initiative/ Please note that I cannot accept applications sent direct to me. Remember to indicate the East of England as your region.
The prospectus outlines the process and give a guide on the types of grants. You will need to justify your application and please ensure you complete all section of the application form as detailed as possible. If accepted you will be asked to provide follow up information on how the project was implemented and what the outcomes were.
If you need to clarify anything, need any advice or guidance then please contact me.
John Wickham
07808876785
Prospectus can be downloaded here.
Forthcoming Events
EACU PATRICK RIBBANDS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS
Sunday 1st March 2026
Details can be downloaded here
Paul Kemp has kindly produced a brief summary of a number of local events in the spring, that you or your club juniors may be interested in. Please circulate to all that may be interested.
2026 Chess Calendar
Anglian Learning Chess Academy for Under 16
New Venue & Clubs
March
Northstowe
Wisbech U3A - meet in the afternoon.
Wisbech
