Grassroots clubs up and down the country have been offered help through the new Pitch Preparation Fund, which gives financial support to those struggling to maintain their football pitches.
With football facing unprecedented challenges after the COVID-19 outbreak, the funding is a direct response to a need across the game, providing grants to clubs who have lost normal revenue streams while helping them prepare their playing surfaces after challenging winter weather conditions.
Applications were open until 25 May and are now closed.
The funding of £9.56million, to be distributed by the Football Foundation, has been provided by the Foundation's partners, the Premier League, The FA, the Government and Sport England.
It will help put clubs in a position to start playing again when it is safe to do so, following Government advice. It is estimated the fund will benefit up to 4,000 grassroots clubs and organisations.
"These are unprecedented times, not only within football but for society as a whole, and our thoughts are with all those who have been directly affected by COVID-19," Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said.
"This funding will ensure vital work can be conducted on pitches throughout the country"
"On top of our existing financial commitment to football facilities, this funding will ensure vital work can be conducted on pitches throughout the country to help clubs prepare for when it is safe for the game to resume.”
Robert Sullivan, the Football Foundation Interim Chief Executive, added: "This fund reflects the determination of the Premier League, The FA and Government to work together to make funding available to help get pitches match-ready for when restrictions are lifted."
The funding will help eligible clubs with essential maintenance works, which could include vertical decompaction, slitting, over seeding, fertilising and weedkilling, as well as routine preparatory works such as grass-cutting and the setting out and line-marking of pitches.
"We’re doing all we can to help the sport sector through this difficult time and that includes grassroots football that has such a positive impact on millions of people's lives," Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said.
