Grant News

The Bank of Scotland Foundation has announced that its Energise grants programme will reopen on 28 September 2026, offering two-year unrestricted grants to small Scottish charities supporting vulnerable people. The Foundation is an independent charity funded by Lloyds Banking Group to support charities across Scotland.

Charities with annual income below £50,000 can receive £20,000 over two years, while those with income between £50,000 and £150,000 can receive £40,000. Funding can cover core costs, salaries, service delivery, projects and general running costs.

The Foundation says vulnerability may arise from social, economic, geographic or physical circumstances. Examples include:

• people experiencing poverty,
• homelessness,
• unemployment,
• poor mental health,
• learning disabilities,
• education barriers,
• transport or mobility problems,
• poor English-language skills,
• alcohol addiction.

Key points / Highlights:

• Scottish-registered charities operating in Scotland can apply.
• Annual income must not exceed £150,000.
• Applicants must have at least one year’s accounts lodged with OSCR.
• Vulnerable people must be at the heart of the charity’s work.
• Grants of £20,000 or £40,000 are available over two years.

Applications open at noon on 28 September and close at noon on 7 October 2026. Decisions are expected by mid-December, with funding awarded in January 2027.