Applying for a grant
We have a two-stage process starting with an Expression of Interest which should be submitted as soon as possible, and at least 7 days before the application deadline.
Success rate for eligible applicants who progress Stage 2 and submit a full application: around 80%
The two-stage process
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Before applying, please check that your organisation meets our eligibility criteria and does not fall within our exclusions.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) as early as possible and at least 7 days before the full application deadline. The EOI asks for basic information about your organisation, the amount requested, and a brief outline of your project.
The EOI is not an assessment stage. It helps us confirm that your proposal is financially realistic and aligns with the Trust’s aims. We may suggest a different funding amount or provide guidance to strengthen your application.
If your EOI is suitable, we will invite you to submit a full application.
Eligible full applications have a success rate of around 80%.
Application
If successful, we will provide a link to our online form.
Small
Up to £10,000
Medium
£10,001 to £30,000
Capital Grants
Can be larger than £30,000
Applications for Small and Medium grants may cover project costs, capital costs, or core costs.
Applications may request funding for up to three years.
Applicants may suggest a preferred grant level, but the final amount may vary at the trustees’ discretion.
Eligibility
Applicants must be:
A Registered Charity, Exempt Charity, or Community Interest Company (CIC)
Delivering benefit to communities in the Greater Bristol area. This map shows our area of benefit.
CICs must also:
- Have been established for at least three years
- Have an annual income of at least £50,000
- Generate at least 25% of their income from trading
Please see our home page for the sectors we support.
Exclusions Expand to see more detail
The following are not eligible:
- Medical research
- Medical charities and support groups
- Hospices
- Grants for individuals
- Animal welfare charities
- Sponsorship
We are less likely to support national charities and organisations based outside the Greater Bristol area.
CICs whose business model relies substantially on grant funding are unlikely to be successful.
Deadlines Expand to see more detail
Trustees usually meet quarterly, at the end of January, April, July and October.
Expression of Interest (EOI) Deadlines
Full Application Deadlines (5 pm)
4 December 2026
11 December 2026
5 March 2027
12 March 2027
4 June 2027
11 June 2027
10 September 2027
17 September 2027
EOIs must be submitted at least 7 days before the relevant application deadline.
All applications will be acknowledged. We will publish outcome dates, and applicants should contact us if they have not received a response within two weeks of the expected notification date.
Please do not reapply until 12 months have passed since the deadline of your previous application.
Reporting
Small and Medium Grants
Reporting deadlines will be provided in your grant offer email. We will send an upload link and reminder four weeks before the report is due.
There is no set reporting format, but reports should:
- Be no more than two pages
- Summarise the activities completed
- Explain the outcomes achieved
Capital Grants
We will agree reporting conditions at the time of our grant.