Grants to organisations for projects that address one or more of Cumbria Community Foundation’s 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.
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.
Donor
The Cumbria Fund is collectively funded by a number donors and fundholders.
Who can apply?
• Charitable, not-for-profit organisations
What the Fund will not support in addition to our normal exclusions:
• Individuals
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.
How to apply?
All applications are now made through our online application portal
For further information about this fund please contact:
The Grants Team at grants@cumbriafoundation.org or call 01900 825760.