Who we will work with

It is not easy to create a tick box of conditions for the sorts of groups we are most likely to support, as there are a quite complex set of decisions which determine the recommendations that we make to trustees.

However, our priority is to fund grassroots, user-led projects. We favour those projects that are likely to have a high impact on social change, either at a policy or practice level. We look for visionary projects, often those that are considered radical or risky and we place great emphasis on projects that are backed by strong leadership.

  • Nurturing Leaders


    We look for and support people who are exceptional because of the quality of their ideas, their ability to put them into practice and their perseverance.

    People we support are usually rooted in their communities and committed to making a difference despite the odds. We look to people with vision, values and energy and an ability to work with others.

    Often, we are drawn to these people and their projects through events and campaigns or through referrals from those we already work with.

    Over time we will offer targeted support to help develop stability and sustainability in the work of partner organisations so that groups do not start to depend on funding from us.


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  • Taking and managing calculated risks


    We support ways of working that may be considered radical or different. This often means we have to take and manage calculated risks. We are keen to support groups who are involved in work that has not been tested and who are prepared to take risks and try new or different approaches.


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  • Work of national significance


    Ideally, we look for groups who are interested in work that could have national significance while responding to local need. In our experience, the organisations who produce the most relevant projects are those that balance local services with campaigning nationally.


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  • West Midlands


    We have a tradition of working in the West Midlands and will continue to give priority to work of national significance in this region.


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Groups we usually support:


  • Develop risky and un-tested approaches
  • Adopt a partnership-based approach to solving problems
  • Share knowledge and experience
  • Use seed funding to attract mainstream funders
  • Support marginalised people, in particular, ethnic minorities, refugees, asylum seekers, women, disabled people and people on low incomes.
  • Are led by users
  • Are run by dynamic leaders

Grants