CIF-eligible project types.
ESFA recognises four project categories. The competitive ranking within Project Need pulls building safety and statutory compliance above pure condition bids in most cycles.
Compiled by Oliver Wakefield-Smith, founder, Digital Signet. Reviewed against ESFA Information for Applicants 2026-27 and the Condition Funding Methodology March 2026 revision.
CIF funds four project categories: building safety, statutory compliance, condition (A/B/C/D graded), and expansion. Building safety and compliance bids consistently achieve the highest award rates; expansion bids the lowest. A single application can cover multiple categories.
Building safety
Fire, asbestos, structural, gas safety, electrical safety. Bids in this category are typically scored highest on Project Need.
Statutory compliance
Equality Act / DDA access, safeguarding, water hygiene (L8). Routine maintenance does not qualify; the bid must address an extant statutory non-compliance.
Condition
Roofs, windows, heating, fabric. The bid pivots on the published A/B/C/D condition grading; C-grade evidence is the practical sweet spot.
Expansion
New classroom blocks, sixth-form extensions. Lowest award rate in most cycles; PAN and basic-need data are mandatory.