28-07-2025
Pouring pints helping to fund grassroots sports clubs across the country
Pouring pints has been helping to be keep grassroots sports clubs alive, thanks to Greene King IPA's Proud to Pitch In scheme.
The pub chain has donated more than £1 million since its launch in 2021 with more than 370 teams across the UK supported thanks to pints sold up and down the country.
Clubs are able to apply for grants of up to £4,000 as Greene King look to tackle the rising challenges facing clubs.
According to Sport England, one in four grassroots sports clubs is at risk of closure due to financial pressure and 42 per cent of adults from lower socio-economic groups are inactive.
This is despite the huge benefits that come with being active, including boosts to physical and mental health and creating more connected communities.
Gemma Woolnough-Smith, Marketing Manager for Greene King IPA, said: 'Grassroots sport is where champions start out, but more importantly, it's where communities come together, barriers break down, and lifelong memories are made.
'For the clubs receiving this support, it's a lifeline. From park pitches at local parks to paddling out at dawn, these vital teams are doing more than playing sport - they're actively changing lives and strengthening their communities.
'Reaching this £1 million milestone is a proud moment, and as we are now firmly in this year's summer of sport, we want to celebrate all of the sport clubs out there making a difference in their communities.
'The clubs supported by Proud to Pitch In are proof that when you invest in grassroots, you help raise the bar for everyone.'
Greater London received the most support to power vital community projects, with 35 clubs funded and more than £93,000 invested, showing strong grassroots engagement in the capital. The West Midlands follows, 17 projects supported and nearly £47,000 awarded in funding.
Devon and West Yorkshire also each saw 13 clubs supported, receiving over £40,000 and £37,000 to feed back into their local sports teams.
Mark Shearer, Founder and CEO of ActionFunder, said: 'This milestone shows what real community support looks like. £1 million isn't just a big number. It's surfboards in the sea, ropes ready for international competitions, and vital sessions that give people the chance to train, belong and thrive.
'We've seen firsthand how Greene King IPA's Proud to Pitch In scheme transforms community projects on the ActionFunder platform. It has funded clubs focused on bringing people together, breaking down barriers and encouraging groups to stay active. Whether it's a veteran learning to surf or a teenager stepping onto a pitch for the first time, this is grant giving at its most powerful.
'Through ActionFunder, businesses like Greene King are transforming local communities. We're proud of our partnership to deliver vital funds to community groups across the UK.'
The top 10 regions supported by Greene King IPA's Proud To Pitch In
Rank Region No. of projects Total funding
1 Greater London 35 £93,254.79
2 West Midlands 17 £46,932.00
3 Devon 13 £40,906.00
4 West Yorkshire 13 £37,623.31
5 Great Manchester 12 £31,185.00
6 Nottinghamshire 10 £29,045.00
7 London (central) 9 £23,931.39
8 Lancashire 8 £22,985.00
9 Essex 8 £22,881.00
10 Tyne and Wear 6 £19,500.00
