Grant News
The Social Investment Business has opened the first round of the UK Government’s £500 million Better Futures Fund, with up to £37 million available to improve outcomes for children, young people and families affected by poverty. SIB is one of the UK’s largest social investors, supporting charities and social enterprises with finance and practical support.
The first round will fund a small number of England-based Social Outcomes Partnership pathfinder projects. Supported activity could include:
- Family support programmes that help families experiencing poverty and prevent children from entering care.
- Early years projects that improve child development and school readiness.
- Education programmes designed to improve school engagement, attendance or attainment.
- Youth employment and skills projects that help young people move into training or work.
- SEND support programmes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
- Youth justice and prevention projects aimed at reducing offending or preventing young people entering the justice system.
- Wellbeing, safety and resilience initiatives for children and young people affected by poverty.
Round 1 targets organisations and partnerships with experience delivering Social Outcomes Partnerships (SOPs) and projects sufficiently developed to begin delivery within six months of funding approval.
Key highlights:
• Up to £37 million is available in round one.
• Applicants must have previous Social Outcomes Partnership experience.
• Projects must demonstrate a clear link to child poverty outcomes.
• Funding is for England.
Applications close at midnight on 23 September 2026. Final awards are expected in Q1 2027.
A Better Futures Fund Webinar will be held on Wednesday, 16th September at midday. The session will cover information about the Fund and how to apply. Register here.
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Related Funding News:
Grants of up to £5,000 Available to Tackle Poverty and Social Inequality (England)