Grassroots Pride Fund, Equality and Inclusion Grants – 2025-2026

Pride Cymru is a volunteer-led charity that works to promote the elimination of discrimination be it on the grounds of sexual orientation, gender, race, religion or ability.
Grassroots Pride Fund, Equality and Inclusion Grants – 2025-2026
Now Open

Applications open!

We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the Grassroots Pride Fund and Equality and Inclusion Grants for 2025–2026.

To apply, simply click the button below to complete the application form.

Note: You cannot save this form as you go along so please download this version and complete it before filling in the application form below.

Now Open

Applications open!

  • wml 280822 pride cymru 048

We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the Grassroots Pride Fund and Equality and Inclusion Grants for 2025–2026.

To apply, simply click the button below to complete the application form.

Note: You cannot save this form as you go along so please download this version and complete it before filling in the application form below.

History of the Grassroots Pride Fund

The Grassroots Pride Fund has helped for the last three years to put on Pride events the length and breadth of Wales to engage and support LGBTQ+ people and broader communities. This funding has previously been administered by the Welsh Government directly, fulfilling a commitment in their Programme for Government.

In order to improve the delivery of the fund and make it more responsive to the needs of Prides, the Welsh Government have acted on feedback and this year asked Pride Cymru to administer the fund on their behalf. This is in line with practice in other grant making schemes such as the Windrush Grant scheme.

As the largest and longest running Pride event in Wales, we have significant experience in what it takes to deliver a live event for the LGBTQ+ community.

This decision has been made at pace and in-year, so we are working quickly with the Welsh Government to make sure the fund is fit for purpose, transparent and able to be distributed to Pride organisations.

Guidance and FAQs

All bids will be assessed in line with Welsh Government’s Programme for Government commitment to making Wales the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in Europe.

Your application will be assessed by four independent representatives and a member of the LGBTQ+ Welsh Government Policy Team.

  • Lisa Power – Chair (Trustee, Fast Track Cymru and Queer Britain Museum; longstanding involvement in LGBTQ+ and Pride movement, Cardiff)
  • Berwyn Rowlands (Chief Executive, Wales-wide Iris Prize Festival, Cardiff)
  • Lee Tiratira (Strategic Youth Lead at EYST, Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team, Sports Lead, Mold)
  • Claire Owens (Refugee Resettlement Officer, Founder of Ty Pride, Denbighshire) 
  • A Welsh Government official (tbd)

Your application will require the following criteria to be evidenced:

1. Clarity of organisational structure and financial arrangements (how are you constituted and organised?)

2. Event to be held in Wales between April 2025 and March 2026 (tell us the date/s of your event)

3. Experience of organising a Pride or other event management (What past experience, if any, do your key organisers have of previous Prides and/or any other community events – when and where?)

4. Evidence of good standing of organisers within the local community (see request for reference)

5. Commitment to wide community inclusion and engagement (what will you do to ensure this?)

6. Demonstrable efforts to make the event as accessible as possible (what are your arrangements for people with disabilities and any underserved communities locally?)

7. Event offers opportunities to LGBTQ+ performers and organisations (how will you showcase LGBTQ+ performers and/or community groups in whatever march or event you organise?)

8. Appropriate policies and procedures in place to ensure Health & Safety and Safeguarding appropriate to the size of the event (show us how you will keep people safe at your event)

9. Practical impact of measures/items funded and value for money (How will this funding help your event and how you will make sure purchases are good value?)

10. Appropriateness of items hired/activities being funded (what will you use the money for and (as in point 9) how will this enhance your event?)

Some of these criteria will be asked as specific questions in the form; others should be addressed in the free text boxes asking for a description of your event and how you will use the funding.

This form is not saveable until you reach the end. Applicants are advised to read through all the questions here by downloading the form and be sure you have all the information to hand before you tackle the form.

The Welsh Government have previously specified the aims as:

  • to host an LGBTQ+ Pride event in a location in Wales, which can include opportunities for LGBTQ+ performers and artists
  • to undertake outreach with wider communities with a focus on exploring safer spaces and supporting new social events
  • to contribute towards our Programme for Government commitment for Wales to be the most LGBTQ+ friendly place in Europe

Pride Cymru will not be taking any of the amount allocated for grants.

The administration of the fund will be a significant piece of work, which will be undertaken by a member of our staff. A small administration payment is being made by the Welsh Government to enable this. It is not feasible for a volunteer to do all the required work, and the admin payment will cover part of a salary. There is a significant cost saving to the public purse by this being undertaken by Pride Cymru and this is reflected in the increased funding available to applicants.

Decisions will be made by a small panel of independent lay members of the LGBTQ+ community and a Welsh Government official. Applications will be assessed according to the Programme for Government, which aims to make Wales the most LGBTQ+ friendly country in Europe.

Applications should specify what the money will be/has been used for. This can include costs such as hire of  room/space, tents and equipment, translators and ways of increasing accessibility such as hire of appropriate toilets, wheelchairs, hearing equipment, or a specific project to extend the community reach of the Pride and increase community inclusion.These uses may be subject to monitoring after the event for the purposes of the final report.

Funding allocated will take into account the previous size and inclusivity of the event (first-time events without previous numbers will be able to apply for up to £1500).

Up to £38,250 is available for distribution. New events can apply for up-to £1500 and existing Prides can apply for up-to £5000 maximum. Last year existing events received between £1000 and £3500.

Successful Prides will need to incorporate the ‘Sponsored by Welsh Government’ logo on their website / promotional material to acknowledge this support and ensure there is sufficient reference to the role that the fund has played in making the event a reality. Guidance will be given to successful applicants.

Pride Cymru will be monitored by Welsh Government officials in line with its requirements, including by producing a final report on the scheme that include grants awarded. We will publish that report on our website for transparency.

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in contact:

Our Funders
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© Pride Cymru (Cardiff-Wales LGBT Mardi Gras) is a Registered Company (no. 7217979) and Registered Charity (no. 1137744).
Caerdydd - Cymru LHDT Mardi Gras yn Cofrestredig Cwmni (rhif 7217979) ac Elusen Gofrestredig (rhif 1137744).

© Pride Cymru (Cardiff-Wales LGBT Mardi Gras) is a Registered Company (no. 7217979) and Registered Charity (no. 1137744).
Caerdydd - Cymru LHDT Mardi Gras yn Cofrestredig Cwmni (rhif 7217979) ac Elusen Gofrestredig (rhif 1137744).

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Looking for help…
What time does the Parade start?

The Parade sets off at 11:00am. We ask all registered participants to begin forming from 9:30am on Westgate Street, Cardiff City Centre.

Where is the parade assembly point?

Parade groups should assemble along Westgate Street, where each registered and approved group will have a pre-allocated position, identified by a colour zone. These colours will be clearly marked on the street lights lining the assembly area, making them easy to spot. Simply head to your designated colour zone to begin forming up. Our staff and volunteers will be on hand along the parade route to help guide you to your correct position. Your assigned colour, along with other essential information and a map, will be included in your Parade Pack.

When will we receive our Parade Pack?

Parade Packs will be emailed to registered and approved group leaders imminently, containing your line-up position, route map and health & safety guidance.

Can anyone join the Parade on the day?

To ensure safety and manage numbers, only pre-registered groups and individuals may take part in the parade. Unfortunately, we cannot accept walk-ins on the day.

What is the route of the Parade?

The Parade route will start on Westgate Street, travel through the city centre, and finish near where the Pride Cymru festival site will be located. A full map will be shared in the Parade Pack, and available online.

Can I just watch the parade?

Absolutely! We want as many people as possible to enjoy the Parade as it travels through the city centre. Please use safe spaces along the route to watch, cheer on participants, take photos, and help make this the best Pride Cymru Parade yet!

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, well-behaved furry friends are welcome! However, if your dog is sensitive to large crowds or loud noises, we recommend leaving them at home for their own comfort. Please note that pets are brought at your own risk.

I’m registered and accepted to be in the Parade, but I have friends coming who I didn’t register. Can they join me/my group?

Yes – the more the merrier!  Please just make sure your group still assembles in your assigned colour zone as indicated in your Parade Pack.

How long will the Parade last?

The Parade usually takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your position in the line-up and pace of movement.

What should we bring with us?

  • Water & weather-appropriate clothing (sunblock or waterproofs!)
  • Banners, placards, and flags
  • Comfortable shoes
Are floats and vehicles allowed?

Yes, but only with prior approval. If you’ve registered a vehicle, ensure it complies with our safety and insurance requirements, and we will be in touch about positioning

Is the Parade accessible?

Yes! We’re committed to making the Parade as accessible as possible. We have a designated coloured zone within the Parade for participants who indicated access requirements during registration. Details will be included in your Parade Pack. If you need further support or have specific questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at parade@pridecymru.com. Please note that our team are volunteers, and in the run-up to the Parade, response times may be slower. We kindly ask that you only get in touch if it’s essential, and to do so ahead of Parade Day, as we won’t be able to respond on the day itself.

Can we throw confetti or hand out flyers/promotional items?

For safety and environmental reasons, we ask that you do not throw items into the crowd. Handing out flyers / promotional items is fine, as long as it’s done responsibly.

Will there be toilets available at the assembly point?

There are no toilet facilities provided during the formation or along the route.

Who do I contact if I have questions before the day?

Drop us a line at parade@pridecymru.com and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible. Please note that our team are volunteers, and in the run-up to the parade, response times may be slower. We kindly ask that you only get in touch if it’s essential, and ahead of parade day, as responses on the day will not be possible.

Accessibility Overview

We want to make the event as accessible as possible to everybody and we offer all reasonable measures to assist with your attendance and enjoyment.

At the same time, the event takes place on a large site made up of uneven grass surfaces with divots and tufts, so navigating around the site may at times be tricky. If there is significant wet weather these surfaces may become slippery and muddy. Volunteers may be available to assist anyone having difficulties on the day.

Accessibility tickets are available for deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people that may require extra provisions in place to enjoy the event.

You may also request a free carer/companion/personal assistant ticket once you have purchased your accessibility ticket.

We offer an access wristband system to people that purchase an accessible ticket, which allows unquestioned access to provisions including but not limited to:

  • Fast lane queue(s) with wider aisles for wheelchair and mobility scooters. You will receive your access wristband at this point.
    • You will need to attend the Access Hub for your wristband if you purchase your ticket on the day.
  • A mobile changing places unit from Revolootion (Vehicle for change) will be situated near the entrance and available throughout both days. There will also be accessible portaloos throughout the site.
  • Ability to leave and return to the event with no extra cost.
  • A viewing platform for the main stage and viewing areas at other stages.
  • Further provisions are covered in the questions below.

Please note that strobe and lighting effects will be in use along with smoke machines and video displays. Due to the nature of the event it will be busy and noisy.

If you have any questions or concerns relating to accessibility, please contact Helen and the access team by email on access@pridecymru.com.

How do I get a carers/PA ticket?

Buy your own ticket for your chosen days using the accessible ticket link. You will then receive an email with a link to a form to apply for your carers/PA ticket. This will then be reviewed and you will be kept up to date with the progress via email.

You are welcome to email access@pridecymru.com if you have any questions or difficulties with the form.

What evidence do I need for a carer/PA ticket?

We understand that everyone’s needs are different and treat each person as an individual. Commonly people will use the first page of their current PIP/DLA award notice, a copy of their blue badge (both sides), or Hynt card/Access card. These are examples and not the only documents accepted. If you do not have any documentation, or have questions please email access@pridecymru.com with information you feel appropriate to express your need for accessible amenities.

Can I get a carer/PA ticket on the day?

Yes, please bring your evidence of need with you such as your PIP award notice, Hynt card, blue badge or other suitable documentation. Once you have bought your ticket please come to the Access Hub so we can give you your access wristband and tell you about the provisions in place. We do recommend buying your ticket in advance so that we can answer any questions and so that you do not have to carry important documentation with you.

Can I bring food and drink with me for my allergies or conditions?

Yes. but please let the security know you are an access customer. Please only bring a small amount. Drink must be no more than 500ml in a sealed bottle. No cans, alcohol or glass are allowed.

No hot food or large picnic hampers. Any exception to this needed for dietary requirements can be discussed in advance with our access team – access@pridecymru.com.

Can I bring medication with me?

If you will need prescribed medication whilst at the event please bring the smallest amount possible and a copy of your repeat prescription if you have one. If however, you can avoid bringing medication with you we do suggest that as we would not want you to lose it.

I can’t stand for long. Will the queue be long?

As an access customer you will have use of a separate queue lane which will involve minimal waiting. There will be signage and volunteers to guide you.

Can I bring a chair with me?

As an access customer you can bring a foldable stool/chair into the event. Please advise security if they ask that you are an access customer.

Can my friends join me in the access queue?

To keep the access queue moving and limit wait times, we would ask that just you and your carer/companion and/or friend assisting you use the access lane.

Can I leave to take medication and/or address my dietary needs and re-enter the event?

Yes as an access customer you will be allowed to leave the site and re-enter.

How will the volunteers, staff and security know I am an access customer?

You will be recognised as an access customer by the wristband you will be given at either the gateline or Access Hub. Lots of people will be wearing wristbands so you will not look different or stick out.

Will there be accessible toilets or changing places toilet?

Yes there will be accessible portaloos around the site and also the RevoLOOtion vehicle (previously Mobiloo) will be with us both days.

Is there accessible parking available?

There is very limited parking available for Blue Badge holders. This is pre-bookable by adding a copy of your Blue Badge (both sides) and vehicle registration to the access form that is sent via email when you purchase your accessible ticket. The closing date for this is 15 June 2025. The nearest pay and display parking is at the Civic Centre amongst others which can be found here.

Will there be BSL available?

Yes, the Principality Building Society Main Stage, Community Stage and Marcia Bassey Jones Cabaret Stage will have BSL support over both days. There will be BSL support at the gateline at peak times and available on request. A member of the BSL team will walk the parade in the access area. If you require BSL assistance please contact a volunteer.

Is there a quiet area?

There is a space within the Access Hub that will have seating and a selection of fidgets, noise cancelling headphones and activities for if you need to decompress or get away from the hustle and bustle for a bit. As an access customer you are able to leave the event site and return when you want/need to. Due to the nature/location of the event we will not be able to control the sound level, however we will endeavour to create a calm and relaxing environment.

Is there a quiet time?

Yes on Sunday between 11:30-12pm, there will be no acts on stages or flashing lights to allow a quiet browse of the event site.

Can I bring my service/support animal?

Yes you can bring your support animal, there will  be water points at the Access Hub and the viewing platform. Please consider weather conditions and the wellbeing of your animal as the event will be loud and crowded.

Do you hire mobility scooters?

Unfortunately not. If you have a personal mobility scooter or hire one, you are welcome to bring it to the event. There will be charging points at the Access Hub and viewing platform.

Will I feel safe?

Pride Cymru is a safe space for our community to celebrate diversity and equality, and we expect attendees of all of our events to embrace and respect this. Pride works with our event delivery partners during all stages of our planning, ensuring that the event is a safe experience for all.

Violent, threatening, or offensive behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated whether it’s against staff, volunteers, parade participants, market stall holders, security personnel or members of the public.

We will not tolerate any individual or group engaged in offensive behaviour or using any signage targeting an individual on grounds of their sexuality, gender, gender identity, race, age, nationality, disability, appearance, religion or any other protected characteristic.

If you witness or are made aware of any incident or behaviour that goes against the expected behaviour set out above, please inform a member of security staff or one of our volunteers.

For your safety we have event CCTV which is monitored and recorded. Anyone found to be harassing, being abusive or infringing on the bodily integrity of other participants or acting in a manner which goes against any of the above things that Pride Cymru stands for, will be asked to leave and, depending on the behaviour, may be referred to the Police.

What time does the event start / end?

The parade will begin around 11am on Saturday 21st June. Gates open to the event at 12pm with entertainment from around 12.30. The event finishes at 10.30pm with the last entry by 9.30pm. We recommend that you get here early, so you don’t miss any of the action!

On Sunday, the event will run from 12-8pm, with a quiet hour 12-1pm.

Where is Pride Cymru taking place?

Pride Cymru 2025 will be taking place in and around Coopers Field, with a number of amazing attractions suitable for all ages.

What is there at Pride Cymru?

Pride Cymru is packed with amazing spaces and entertainment for everyone to enjoy! Here’s what you’ll find:

Principality Building Society Main Stage – with incredible live music and headline acts
S4C Community Stage – showcasing local talent and community groups
Marcia Bassey Jones Cabaret Stage – full of fabulous drag, and cabaret performances
Discovery Stage – shining a light on new talent and emerging voices
Family Area – fun, safe and engaging activities for all ages
Youth Area – a dedicated space for young people to connect, create and celebrate
Sports Area – try something new and get active with inclusive sports and games
Faith Tent – a welcoming space for reflection, support, and interfaith connection
Market Stalls –  featuring LGBTQ+ vendors, charities, and local businesses

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are permitted at Pride Cymru 2025, however, we strongly recommend that you leave your four-legged friends at home as there will be loud noises and large crowds, which may scare animals. Dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times, and please clean up immediately if your dog fouls. Bins are located around the site. If your dog is causing a nuisance or is a threat to other visitors, you will be asked to leave.

Dogs will not be permitted into the demarcated family area and only one dog is permitted per person.

Can I bring my own food and drink with me?

You can bring non-alcoholic drinks in, but only in sealed, plastic containers of 500ml or less.

No food can be brought into the event.

None of the following items are allowed to be brought into the event:

  • Alcohol
  • Sharp objects (including knives, cutlery etc)
  • Glass bottles (including perfume)
  • Cans
  • Barbecues

Your bags will be checked as you enter and prohibited items will be confiscated. This list is not exhaustive, a full list of prohibited items will be displayed on entry gates.

Is there a limit to bag size when I go in?

We strongly recommend you pack as light as you can. Your bag will be searched before you come in so the smaller the bag, the quicker you’ll get into the event. All bags will be tagged by security once searched. No suitcases or large holdalls please. No bags larger than A4 should be brought into the event.

What cannot be brought into the event?

The following items are prohibited and CANNOT be brought into the event.

  • Alcohol
  • Drugs
  • Medicines without a prescription or justification
  • Soft drinks in containers over 500ml or unsealed
  • Cans or Metal Bottles
  • Glass bottles (including perfume bottles)
  • Knives, Syringes & Scalpels
  • Barbecues
  • Large Bags
  • Luggage
  • Spray cans (including sun cream aerosol sprays, and hairspray)
  • Lasers
  • Selfie sticks
  • Flares & Pyrotechnics
  • Explosives, Signalling Devices, Smoking Devices
What happens if I bring alcohol/drugs in?

Alcohol and illegal drugs are 100% prohibited. Your bags will be searched on entry and any alcohol found will be confiscated. There will be bars on site where you can purchase drinks, but please drink responsibly. Anyone found with illegal substances will be refused entry with no refund.

Pride Cymru is a safe space and we ask everyone to be considerate of all attendees.

We operate a Challenge 25 policy and any under 18s found to be consuming alcohol may be removed from site.

How do I get to Pride Cymru 2025?

Pride Cymru 2025 will take place in the heart of Cardiff, making it easy to reach by public transport, car, or on foot.

By Train: Cardiff Central Station is just a short walk from the event site. Trains run regularly from across Wales and the UK. You can plan your train journey, and book your train travel to Pride Cymru here: https://tfw.wales/
By Bus: Local and regional buses stop throughout the city centre, with nearby drop-off points for easy access. (exact locations TBC)
By Car: City centre parking is available, but it can get busy — we recommend using public transport where possible. If you’re driving to Pride Cymru 2025, it’s recommended to park in areas near the Law Courts and the National Museum of Wales. Please note these are pay and display car parks not operated by Pride Cymru. We cannot accept responsibility for any damage or loss to vehicles parked at these locations. You can find a full list of city centre car parks here: Visit Cardiff Car Parks
By Bike/Foot: Cardiff is a walkable and cycle-friendly city, with plenty of secure bike parking options nearby.

Help! I haven’t received my ticket. Where is it?

Your ticket will be emailed to you in the weeks leading up to the event. If you’re having trouble finding it, please check your spam folder.

Still no ticket? Don’t worry! Just contact Ticketsellers at info@theticketsellers.co.uk or theticketsellers.co.uk/contact/

Do I need to print my ticket?

No, just make sure you have the ticket ready and downloaded on your phone and you’ll be good to go. Feel free to print your tickets if you prefer to have something physical, we’re happy either way!

However, printed tickets can be easier for our teams to scan. So, if you have access to a printer, we recommend printing yours so you can get into the event as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Can I buy tickets on the door?

Yes! However the cost of the ticket on the day will be more and subject to availability depending on capacity so we can’t guarantee entry. To save time, money and to make sure you get in on the day, we recommend buying your tickets in advance.

Can I re-enter with my tickets?

No, we operate a no re-entry policy. Once you leave the site you will need to buy another ticket to come back in although we hope you won’t want to leave! This is so we can maintain a safe number of people on site at all times and comply with the terms of our licence set by the local authority.

Can children attend?

All ages are welcome!

Under 5s go free – they don’t need a ticket.

Children’s tickets are needed for 5 to 14 years old. These can only be purchased alongside a full price adult ticket. Up to two children can enter with each adult.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Can I buy a family ticket?

We don’t offer any family tickets but adults can buy up to 2 children’s tickets (5-14 years old) each when purchasing a full price ticket for themselves. Children under 5 can enter without a ticket.

Weekend tickets

We don’t offer weekend tickets, so if you want to come along to the event on both days please buy yourself a Saturday ticket and a Sunday ticket.

I’d like to perform / I know someone who would be great!

We are currently accepting submissions! If you are interested in performing in Pride Cymru 2025 then please submit your application here.

What time do performances start?

Our first performances will begin at 12:30pm on Saturday, but different areas may have slightly different opening and closing times.

Who is performing on Saturday/Sunday? 

Our line-up is currently being announced on our social media pages! Please follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated. You can also see our line-up so far here.

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