Grant Making Trusts

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Grant Making Trusts

Applying to a grant-making trust might feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward and rewarding process. These trusts exist to distribute funding for charitable purposes, and many specialise in supporting educational institutions, community initiatives, and projects that enhance the wellbeing of children and families.

Whether you’re part of a school, PTA group, or local organisation, here’s how to approach applying for funding from a grant-making trust — and maximise your chances of success.

Step 1: Identify the Right Grant-Making Trust for Your Project

Start by gathering input from those involved in the project—staff, PTA members, governors, or community leaders. Define what your goal is, who it will benefit, and what the funding will help you achieve.

Once your goals are clear, begin compiling a list of prospective funders whose mission aligns with your aims. Many local councils offer grant search platforms, and you can also find useful resources through your local Council for Voluntary Services (CVS). Be sure to pay close attention to the eligibility criteria, which may include:

The location of your organisation
Who will benefit (e.g., children, students, vulnerable groups)
The specific issue your project addresses

Step 2: Narrow Down Your List

With thousands of grant-making trusts available in the UK, finding the right one can be overwhelming. To narrow your options, review each funder’s:

Areas of interest
Previous grant recipients
Application deadlines and timelines
Funding limits (some trusts offer small grants, others large)
Exclusion criteria

This step is crucial to avoid wasting time on applications that are unlikely to be successful.

Step 3: Craft a Strong Application

Once you’ve selected the most suitable grant-making trust, it’s time to write your application. Ensure it clearly outlines:

What the project is
Who will benefit and how
The outcomes you expect to achieve
Total costs and how the funding will be spent
Your project timeline

Keep your language clear, concise, and focused on the impact the grant will have.

Top Tips for Successful Applications

Read the guidelines thoroughly—and revisit them before submitting.
Only apply if you meet the funder’s criteria—don’t try to “make it fit.”
Reach out—if the trust offers pre-application support, take advantage of it.
Complete all sections—incomplete applications are often rejected early.
Include key documents—such as your latest annual report or financial accounts.
Have the right person write it—someone who understands the project inside and out.
Demonstrate real need—explain why the funding is essential and the positive change it will create.
Be realistic—with both your budget and your expectations.
Apply widely—not every trust will respond, so cast your net as wide as possible.
Be patient—decisions can take time, and not all applications will be successful.

Ready to Get Started?

We’ve created a free downloadable funding guide that lists six grant-making trusts that regularly support schools and community projects. It’s the perfect place to begin your fundraising journey.

Download our Free School & Community Funding Guide

At Able Canopies, we believe in making outdoor learning and sheltered spaces accessible to all. Whether you’re looking to fund a new school canopy, outdoor classroom, or covered play area, we’re here to help you find the right solution—and the right funding to support it.

If you’d like support with your upcoming project or need help planning your application, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team today.

Able Canopies Ltd. design, manufacture and install canopies and shade structures at schools, nurseries and educational settings to enable year-round Free Flow Outdoor Play and Outdoor Learning.
For more information please contact us

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