COMMUNITY organisations across the Liverpool City Region are being given the chance to create a lasting legacy from the Tour de France, when it rolls into the Region next year.
Applications opened today (Tuesday, 10 November 2026) for a new community fund aimed at supporting cycling-related projects in the build up to and beyond the City Region hosting the world's biggest free sporting event next July.
Culture Liverpool is inviting proposals through the Liverpool City Region Major Sports Small Grants Programme:- Tour de France Grand Départ Community Legacy Fund, which will provide grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 to help local organisations deliver inclusive, accessible and sustainable projects connected to cycling.
The legacy fund, which has been created by Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Knowsley Council, Liverpool City Council and St Helens Council, forms part of JOY, British Cycling's social impact programme for the 2027 Grands Départs.
The 2027 Grands Départs will see Liverpool City Region host the finish of the men's Stage 2 on:- Saturday, 3 July 2027.
The Combined Authority is also currently working with local authorities in the City Region to deliver a high-quality, 600 km active travel network.
Community cycling groups, affiliated cycling clubs, charities, arts and cultural organisations, community interest companies (CICs), voluntary organisations and neighbourhood groups are all encouraged to apply.
Projects can focus on expanding existing programmes, creating new cycling opportunities, reaching underrepresented communities, developing volunteers and local leaders, or building stronger networks that help more people participate in cycling. Organisations that use sport, culture, creativity, health, youth work or community development to engage communities are also encouraged to apply.
The legacy fund is designed to ensure that the impact of hosting one of the world's most iconic sporting events is felt long before the race arrives and continues long afterwards, helping to make cycling more accessible and representative of the communities it serves.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:- “The Tour de France is 1 of the world’s greatest sporting events, captivating millions of fans as the world’s best cyclists push themselves to the limit. But for me, its greatest legacy will be the impact it leaves on our communities. We’re a Region that lives and breathes sport, and this fund is about giving more local people the opportunity to get on their bikes and discover the benefits of cycling. The Tour de France may only be here for a day, but its impact on our Region will last for years.”
Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:- "The Tour de France coming to Liverpool will be an incredible occasion, but it also brings a real opportunity to leave a lasting, positive impact on our people and communities. This fund will help local community organisations use cycling as a way to bring people together, improve health and wellbeing, build confidence, and create new opportunities for residents of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it's introducing children to cycling for the first time, supporting more people to get involved, or helping communities develop local activities and volunteer networks, these projects can make a lasting difference and bring benefits that extend far beyond race day.”
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council commented:- “The Tour de France Grand Départ will bring international attention to our Region, but its positive impact should be felt long after the cyclists have crossed the finish line. Through this legacy funding, we're investing in local community organisations that help people stay active, connected and proud of where they live. By supporting grassroots projects, we're ensuring that the benefits of hosting such a world-class event create lasting opportunities for our residents and communities.”
Councillor George Woodward, Leader of St Helens Borough Council, said:- "We are very much looking forward to welcoming the Tour de France to St Helens and being part of such a prestigious global sporting event. This funding presents a fantastic opportunity for community groups to develop projects that encourage even more people to get involved in cycling, which can lead to a boost for health and wellbeing. We want the benefits of hosting the Tour de France to extend far beyond race day itself, and this legacy fund will help ensure the event leaves a positive and lasting impact on our borough for many years to come."
Simon O’Brien, Liverpool City Region’s Active Travel Commissioner, said:- “Having the Tour de France come to Liverpool is simply amazing and what better way to celebrate the event than by rewarding the incredible groups and individuals already encouraging us all to get out on our bikes whether for a pootle round the park or a charity challenge. The legacy of the world's greatest race must be felt long after the yellow jersey has left for Paris once more."
Successful projects will contribute to one or more key objectives, including increasing participation among underrepresented groups, strengthening community organisations, developing volunteers and ride leaders, creating stronger community connections and delivering long-term benefits beyond the funding period.
Projects must be delivered between March 2027 and March 2028 and should demonstrate a clear link to cycling and the legacy opportunities created by the Tour de France Grand Départ.
Applications open at:- 2pm on:- Tuesday 10 November 2026 and close on:- 11:59pm Tuesday 1 December 2026.
Successful applicants will be notified during the week commencing:- 4 January 2027.
Applications should be submitted via this form.