Community Partnership Fund
Working in partnership to support local communities across Oxfordshire.
The Community Partnership Fund (CPF) supports collaboration between the University of Oxford and community organisations across Oxfordshire, bringing together local knowledge, expertise and resources to make a positive difference.
The Fund takes a partnership-led approach, working with organisations on initiatives that respond to local priorities and offer opportunities for meaningful collaboration. Support may include access to University expertise, facilities, networks, staff and student involvement, alongside financial contributions where appropriate.
By building on existing community strengths and shared ambitions, the University aims to develop sustainable partnerships that create lasting benefits for local communities.
What the fund supports
The Community Partnership Fund focuses on opportunities that:
- respond to identified needs and priorities within Oxfordshire communities
- build on existing initiatives, experience and community relationships
- offer clear opportunities for collaboration between local organisations and the University
- bring together complementary skills, knowledge and resources
- have the potential to deliver meaningful and sustainable community benefit
Partnerships may span education, sport, culture, wellbeing and other community-focused activities, with support shaped around the needs and strengths of those involved.
How we develop partnerships
The University works proactively with community organisations and local partners to identify opportunities where collaboration can make a meaningful difference.
The Community Partnership Fund no longer operates an open application process. Instead, the University takes a proactive approach to identifying and developing partnerships through existing relationships, local networks and opportunities aligned with shared priorities.
Each potential partnership is considered in relation to its community benefit, the strengths and experience of those involved, and how the University can contribute effectively. This helps ensure that partnerships are practical, mutually beneficial and sustainable.
Where a project may be better suited to another form of support, the University may be able to suggest alternative opportunities or connections through its wider networks.
Partnership in practice
From grassroots organisations to city-wide initiatives, partnerships take many forms, but at their core, they are built on shared purpose and trust.
Partnerships 2026
Oxfordshire Play Association
Oxfordshire Play Association works with communities across the county to create inclusive, accessible play opportunities that support children's wellbeing, development and social connection. Through the Community Partnership Fund, the partnership explores how the University can contribute through volunteering, community engagement and shared expertise, helping to remove barriers to participation and ensuring more children and families can benefit from safe, creative and enriching play experiences.
Oxford Emmaus
Emmaus Oxford supports people who have experienced homelessness by providing a home, meaningful work and opportunities to rebuild confidence and independence. Through the Community Partnership Fund, the partnership is strengthening pathways into learning and development, work experience, and helping companions develop confidence, build employability, and access opportunities that support longer-term independence and social inclusion.
Oxford Preservation Trust (Oxford Open Doors)
The Community Partnership Fund is supporting Oxford Preservation Trust in expanding the delivery of Oxford Open Doors by increasing University participation through additional venues, activities, and volunteering opportunities. Working in partnership with the University's External Engagement Team, the programme is strengthening connections across departments, colleges and cultural partners to create an even richer and more accessible experience for communities across Oxfordshire.
OX4 STEM Club
OX4 STEM Club is a grassroots, parent-led initiative addressing a STEM enrichment gap for primary-aged children across OX4. Supported through the Community Partnership Fund, they are collaborating with University academics to deliver engaging, hands-on STEM activities and connect parent leaders with wider opportunities across Oxford. Together, the partnership is helping to inspire curiosity, broaden aspirations, and make high-quality STEM experiences more accessible to local families.
2025 Partnerships
Get in touch
While the Fund no longer accepts open applications, the University continues to develop relationships with community organisations across Oxfordshire.
If you would like to share information about your organisation or an existing initiative, please contact the University's External Engagement Team (Local Office).
While not every enquiry will lead to a partnership or financial support, we value opportunities to build connections and better understand the priorities of our local communities.
“The University does so much for the local community and enriches the lives of everyone who takes advantage of their generosity.”
Faqs
Our impact over time
Building on the legacy of the University's Community Grants Scheme, the Community Partnership Fund reflects a longstanding commitment to supporting organisations and initiatives across Oxfordshire.
Over the years, this support has helped strengthen community activities spanning education, sport, culture, wellbeing and social inclusion. As the Fund has evolved, its focus has increasingly centred on developing meaningful partnerships that bring together community knowledge and University resources to create lasting local benefit.
