Frequently Asked Questions

Overview of our grant-making

We usually run two funding rounds per year. Kindly note that to adequately manage our resources, we now  take a proactive approach to our grant-making and funding applications are by invitation only. Therefore this guidance is for applicants who have been invited to submit a proposal for funding.

What type of projects do you fund?

We fund projects which are aligned to our strategic pillars as outlined on our Homepage. We now operate a proactive approach to our grant-making, where all applicants will be invited to make a submission. Kindly note that although applicants have been invited to apply, there is no guarantee of funding.

Do you fund projects in the UK?

We no longer fund projects in the UK, except by invitation. We now primarily fund projects in low-income countries which demonstrate a strong alignment to our strategic pillars.

Do you only fund organisations based in the UK?

Currently we mainly fund through UK-registered charitable organisations, except by invitation. Eligible charitable companies are as follows:

• Registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO)
• Charitable company, limited by guarantee (CLG)
• Community Interest Company (CIC), limited by guarantee

Can we apply as part of a partnership?

Yes, whilst we primarily fund through UK-based organisations, we believe that collaboration with partners  based in the targeted geography is critical. We are keen to support activities which are driven by partner organisations and communities.

Do you provide grants to individuals?

No, we only provide grants to registered charities or eligible charitable companies as outlined above.

How much can we apply for?

We have allocated funding pots per funding cycle, and will discuss grant requests with all invited applicants. We have not specified any upper or lower limits to the budget, as we would like a realistic picture of the true costs of the activities. Based on our current giving trends to date, the grants approved have averaged between £20,000 - £50,000 for a duration of 12-24 months, however please clarify any questions with us.

Please visit 360Giving for more information about the organisations and range of work we have funded to date: https://grantnav.threesixtygiving.org/org/GB-CHC-1194169. You can also find an overview of our previous grants under our Funded Projects.

Can we still apply if we have an ongoing grant?

Yes in exceptional circumstances. However, as we now take a proactive approach to our grant-making, you will be invited to make a submission.

Can I apply for part funding where all funds have not yet been secured?

We would prefer to be the first and / or majority funder for the projects we support, however we understand that this might not always be possible. Therefore, we would want to understand in your application, how you are working to address any funding gaps and what mitigation strategies you have in place should all funds not be secured.

Can we resubmit a previously unsuccessful application?

All submissions are by invitation only. We would advise that you do not resubmit a previously unsuccessful application unless you have been invited to do so.

Can we apply for core funding?

We have largely provided project funding to date. As part of our partnership pathway, we take the approach of first nurturing long-term partnerships, starting with smaller project funding and graduating to more strategic partnerships with a mix of project and core funding. We fully appreciate the importance of core funding to organisational sustainability and to this end, we would encourage that invited applicants discuss this directly with us.

Do you have a % limit on the amount of overheads you will fund?

We do not have an upper limit and would welcome all applicants to calculate their project budget on a full cost recovery basis, with a clear rationale for their calculations. By this we mean outlining all direct project costs in addition to the overhead as a % of costs related to other current projects within your organisation.

Can I submit a written application by post?

All applications should be made using our new online grants management system. Full details will be shared with invited applicants.

Do I need to include any documents with my application form?

All applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• A copy of the audited/independently examined accounts for your organisation for the most recent full financial period
• A copy of your latest management accounts
• A summary budget for the project or activity that is the subject of this grant application
• A copy of the Safeguarding policy for your organisation and your partner(s) as applicable
• Any supporting material you think will help us assess your application (please aim to limit the volume of material you send in for review alongside your application)
• References: All applicants are requested to kindly confirm the names and contact for 2 Referees from other funders who can validate your application and work.

Who approves the applications?

Applications will be assessed by a team at the EA Foundation, with all final decisions made by our Board of Trustees. This process might include subsequent clarification questions. As applicants have been invited to submit a proposal, we are keen for this to be as engaged a process as possible, and whilst not too demanding on your time, one that enables us to understand the nuances of your project.

When will there be another funding round?

The new funding round has just been launched. Again, please note that this will be by invitation only and invited applicants will be notified of the priorities, timelines etc. There will only be one funding round this year and an update on further funding opportunities will be announced in late 2026.

Do we need to report back on our grant?

Yes, you would be expected to send progress reports every six months, unless otherwise agreed.

Who should we contact for any questions?

For any questions, please email  grants@ea-foundation.org.uk