What's Going On?

To support delivery of the Youth Guarantee, the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority is launching a £1.5 million grant programme to strengthen frontline services for young people aged 18 to 21 (up to 25 with EHCP and including 16-17 year olds where there is a strong rationale for doing so.).

Funding is open to schools, colleges, public sector bodies, charities, voluntary organisations, and private training or employment providers with a demonstrable track record of engaging young people and delivering impact.

Proposals must focus on supporting young people aged 18 to 21, particularly those facing barriers to education, employment, or training. Provision should focus on 18-21 year olds (up to 25 with an EHCP) but can include 16-17 year olds where there is a strong rationale for doing so.

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong, active local partnerships
• Clear evidence of need—geographical, demographic or community-based
• A track record of working with young people in the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough region
• Capacity to mobilise and scale relevant services or solutions quickly
• Alignment with the Youth Guarantee pathway framework (see applicant guidance)

The full application stage for the Trailblazer Grant Funding Programme is now open. Organisations that submitted an Expression of Interest are also invited to complete a full application by 6pm on Sunday 14 June 2026.