The funding aims to support a wide range of initiatives that will make a positive impact on communities across the UK.
One key focus is to fund innovative local and community-led projects that may not be eligible for traditional funding sources. This could include anything from setting up a community garden to running a digital skills workshop. The fund also seeks to help disadvantaged people develop the skills they need to find employment by providing training and support.
Additionally, the fund will address specific skills gaps in local areas and reach out to communities where access to training and development opportunities is limited. By working with external organisations, the fund aims to create a sustainable model for delivering social impact through funding and match-funding. Applications can be made at any time throughout the year and will be reviewed on a monthly basis.
Eligible Expenditure
Funding for projects that are:
- Seeking funding for projects or activities that will be delivered in the UK.
- Supporting people 16+ who are facing barriers.
- Supporting the development of skills required to move towards or into employment.
Projects will also be viewed positively if they address any of the following:
- People with convictions, young people at risk of offending, refugees and displaced people, neurodiverse learners and lower socio-economic groups.
- Can evidence that they are addressing local skills gaps and/or directly link to job outcomes.
- Are in a community or region of defined social need (Indices of Multiple Deprivation, DofE cold spots).
There is a two stage application process:
The first step is to submit an Expression of Interest. Applicants will need to register an account to access the online EoI form. Once the form is submitted, they should hear back within 10 working days.
Those who are successful will invited to submit a full application.
Most applicants will know if they are successful in being awarded a grant within two months of starting an EoI.
Due to the volume of applications, the City & Guilds Foundation is not able to provide feedback to individual applicants. Unsuccessful applicants will be informed via email.
Guidelines and the Expression of Interest form can be found on the Foundation's website.