Grant News

UK-registered charities can apply for grants ranging from £10,000 to £25,000 to enhance educational and access opportunities for children and young people in challenging circumstances under the age of 26.

The funding is being made available through The Steel Charitable Trust's United Kingdom Under-26 Fund. This fund operates across the UK, excluding areas served by Luton Council. A specific fund exists for the Luton area (Luton Matters Fund).

The focus is on supporting those facing economic challenges or social marginalisation that may lead to significant disadvantages in later life.

Eligible applicants must be registered charities with a minimum income of £50,000 in the previous financial year. The Trust considers funding for various projects, including contributions to salaries, IT upgrades, building renovations, and both new and ongoing project costs.

Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed quarterly, with specific cut-off dates preceding each meeting. The upcoming deadline for the March 2025 meeting is the 15th January 2025.

To apply, charities must complete an online application form available on the Trust's website, accompanied by supporting documents such as recent accounts, a project plan and budget, and the organisation's safeguarding policy. Applicants are advised to read the fund's guidance notes and understand the application process before submission.

This fund represents approximately 50% of the Trust’s annual grants budget, amounting to an expected total of £3–£3.5 million over the next five years.