Frequently Asked Questions

Overview of our grant-making

We run two funding rounds per year in the Spring and Autumn. 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 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. If you are based overseas or are a private company (other than an eligible charitable company as outlined below), please contact us to discuss your work and proposal before applying. 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 welcome collaboration with multiple partners which can be based in the targeted geography. 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 not specified any upper or lower limits to the budget, as we would like a realistic picture of the true costs of the work. However, based on our current giving trends to date, the grants approved have averaged between £20,000 - £50,000 for an average duration of 12-24 months. 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, 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 so we would advise that you do not resubmit a previously unsuccessful application unless you have been advised 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 potential applicants and existing partners 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 application form. Full details will be shared with invited applicants. An offline version of the application form will also be shared to help applicants prepare their proposals.

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 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 applicants be notified of the outcome of our application?

Applicants will be notified of final decisions by June 2025.

 

Other Key dates

31^st March                               Application portal opens

18^th April                                  Deadline for submission

20^th April – 2^nd May              Shortlisting / Clarification questions

 

When will there be another funding round?

We anticipate that there will be another funding round launched in Autumn 2025. However, please note that this will be by invitation only and the priorities for this round are yet to be confirmed.

Do we need to report back on our grant?

Yes, you would be expected to send progress reports. These are usually every six months or a year depending on the duration of your grant.

Who should we contact for any questions?

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

 

We look forward to receiving your application.