The deadline to apply for a Football People small grant to fund football and anti-discrimination related activities as part of the Fare action weeks ends on 9 September.

The small grants scheme offers financial support of up to €500 to unfunded groups to advance their work, at local and regional level, in empowering communities, promoting personal development and tackling discrimination in football during the Football People weeks, between 08-22 October.

The programme is open to grassroots organisations, including NGOs, minority groups, fans, amateur clubs and educational bodies, among others, to implement and expand local and regional activities that stimulate the inclusion of ethnic minorities, refugees and migrants, disabled people and other marginalised groups through the power of football.

In 2014, over 2,000 activities were held during the two-week period in October. A total amount of €90,000 was allocated in grants across 46 countries, including 242 Small Grants and 15 Event Grants.

Fare executive director, Piara Powar, said: “The small grants scheme continues to be an effective way to support grassroots groups in their efforts to challenge prejudice and discrimination. We know the valuable contribution they make to empower communities, and society at large.

“We encourage grassroots organisations across the continent to join the Football People weeks in October and get involved with their own activities.”

The Fare action weeks bring together thousands of groups to celebrate diversity in football and counter intolerance and exclusion.