Overview
Grants for charitable projects that address one or more of Cumbria Community Foundation’s two key priorities for funding.
Donor
Funded by Cumbria Community Foundation’s long-term capital funds,
The Cumbria Fund focusses on two key priorities: Improving Lives and Strengthening Communities as identified through our community needs reports, which are based on extensive research and community insights.
Theme 1: Improving Lives
• Reducing Poverty: To provide opportunities that lift people and families out of poverty by addressing immediate needs and supporting long-term financial stability. This includes support for financial advice, food and fuel security, and housing stability.
• Reaching Potential: To empower people – especially children, young people, and those facing barriers – to realise their full potential through education, skills development, and personal growth. We support initiatives that build confidence, provide training, and create career opportunities.
• Improving Health: To help people live healthier, happier lives by addressing unmet health needs, reducing inequalities, and promoting wellbeing. We support mental health services, wellbeing programmes, and initiatives that improve accessibility and inclusion.
• Tackling Social Inequality: To promote equality, inclusion, and social justice by supporting those who face systemic barriers or personal challenges. We fund equity-focused initiatives and crisis recovery efforts that help people rebuild their lives and participate fully in society.
Theme 2: Strengthening Communities
• Nurturing Sense of Place: To create stronger, more inclusive communities where people feel connected, safe, and supported. We support community hubs, digital inclusion projects, and initiatives that foster belonging and safety.
• Acting on Climate Change: To support local action that builds environmental resilience and empowers communities to respond to the climate crisis. We fund sustainability, conservation, and climate education projects that promote greener living and community-led solutions.
Examples of projects supported:
• advisory services on tackling debt and benefit entitlement
• youth mentoring and skills development programmes
• community mental health drop-in sessions
• language classes for refugees and asylum seekers
• digital access support in rural communities
• community-led climate action workshops
Revenue (operational) costs will be prioritised over capital (infrastructure or equipment) costs since these costs will have a more immediate and sustained impact on communities.
How much can you apply for?
Grants will normally be up to £10,000 or less over one year.
Multi-year funding may be awarded for certain projects.
For more information, contact us at grants@cumbriafoundation.org or call 01900 825760.