Submit yOur Own prOjEct/idEa

We’ll review proposals from anyone who wants to run an event or creative project in Wimborne. Wimborne residents, businesses and other local organisations or community groups will have priority for funding, but we’re keen for the creative community from other parts of Dorset to get involved too.

As a small team, we don’t have the capacity to run more events than we already are. So, any proposals for micro-commissions need to be events or projects you’re comfortable organising and running yourself. 

That said, we are here to be your hype squad! So, if your proposal is selected you’ll have access to our network and plenty of support to promote it.

There is a small pot of funding available for projects under the micro-commission scheme for Wimborne Town of Culture 2026. You can apply for up to £1,000 to support your project or event under the scheme.

No! If you already run events for our community and want to spread the word, we’re very happy to add them to our events calendar. You can also make them part of the Wimborne Town of Culture by using our branding.

In fact, we’d love it if you made your event part of this year’s cultural celebration! You’ll find everything you need to co-brand your event in our branding pack. 

Yes. Applications for micro-commissions will open on 19 February 2026 and close on 20 April 2026. Any proposals submitted after the April deadline will not be considered for an award.

Before you submit your micro-commission, make sure you read through the funding criteria listed on the application form. Top tip: pitch ideas that tie in with Culture Catalyst theme!

Once all the applications are received, a selection panel with representatives from the Town Council and Town of Culture Steering Group will assess each bid and allocate funding accordingly.

You can apply for one of our micro-commissions if your project meets the criteria. Another option is to join our Facebook Group to connect with businesses, local community groups and other organisations in the area to find out where your skills could be valuable. 

Or, if there are any events that you can support with your skills, you can register as a volunteer.

We aren’t in a position to directly provide support for running events or projects. However, Wimborne has an amazing community and some of them may be able to help. So, whether you’re a local business looking to collaborate with a local artist, or a teacher who needs some help to set up an event, our Facebook Group is the place to go. 

Either put a call out asking for specific help from the community, or share your skills and availability so others in the community know you’re available to help. 

There are other organisations who are offering funding support for creative events connected to Dorset Town of Culture. You can explore what’s available through the following organisations. The Dorset Community Foundation site also has a comprehensive list of funders:

• Dorset Council

• Wimborne Minster Town Council

• Active Dorset

• Arts Council

• Talbot Village Trust

• Dorset Community Foundation