Ahead of the opening of the external Community Fund on Monday 22nd June, Ellie Saltrick, Fund Manager at cardfactory Foundation, shares what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and what this year’s round means for charities across the UK.
Why has the Foundation introduced new priority areas and what are they?
“We have moved from a broad funding criteria to a more focused set of priority areas. Being clearer about our focus also helps reduce unnecessary time and effort for charities. By setting out our priorities more clearly, organisations can quickly see whether we’re the right fit for them before applying.
Our three priority areas are:
- Families experiencing financial disadvantage
- Sudden hardship and crisis
- Vulnerable children and young people
“These priorities reflect our mission of supporting communities at moments that matter and align closely with the communities cardfactory serves.”
This round offers 25 grants of £10,000 rather than the previous 50 grants at £5,000. What was the thinking behind the change? the previous 50 grants at £5,000. What was the thinking behind the change?
“We know fundraising is incredibly challenging right now. By offering fewer, larger grants, we can make a more meaningful difference to charities working in our priority areas, while also building closer relationships and understanding the impact of the funding more deeply.”
The grants are unrestricted. Why is that important?
“Unrestricted income is difficult to secure, especially in the current climate. We trust charities to know where funding is needed most – whether that’s frontline delivery or operational support.”
Who is the fund for?
The fund is open to registered UK charities with an annual income under £3 million that work within at least one of the Foundation’s priority areas.
“We want to support organisations where £10,000 would make a genuine difference to their work, whether they’re local or national.”
What does the application process look like?
Applications open on Monday 22 June through a single-stage written application available on the Foundation website.
“We’ve tried to keep the process straightforward. My advice would be to read the guidance carefully and answer the questions fully.”
What happens after a grant is awarded?
“The Foundation plans to stay connected with funded charities through light-touch reporting and storytelling opportunities.
“We want to celebrate the work charities are doing through our internal and external channels. We’ll ask for a 12-month impact report focused on the difference the funding has made, rather than detailed financial reporting.”
What does success look like for this round?
“Success is 25 charities feeling genuinely supported, communities benefiting from meaningful change, and relationships developing that we can learn and grow from together.”
How do the Foundation’s values shape the fund?
“The Community Fund continues to evolve based on what we’re learning from charities and communities. That willingness to listen and adapt is at the heart of what the Foundation stands for.”
Has your fundraising background influenced this approach?
“Absolutely. We wanted charities to quickly understand whether the fund was right for them and to respect their time throughout the process. I’ve tried to view everything through the eyes of a fundraiser seeing it for the first time – making it clear, practical and useful.”
Finally, what does this moment mean to you personally?
“I’m incredibly excited about this next chapter. Knowing that 25 charities could receive funding that genuinely transforms what they’re able to do means everything.”
Ready to apply?
Applications open Monday 22nd June.
Keep an eye on our Community Fund page for application details.
