How to apply for a grant

Please apply to us using our online Application Form

Ready to start your application?
If you have checked you are eligible and understand the application process and timescale, you can start your application by clicking the link below:

Link: Online Application Form

If this is your first application to us since the 02 September 2025 you will need to create a new log in. You can save your unfinished application and return to it as many times as you like before you submit it by clicking the link above.

Once you submit your application it will be emailed to you. It can no longer be edited online by you, but if you need to make any updates, please let us know and we can make them for you.

If you have difficulties accessing or completing the form online, please let us know, we can either talk you through it or send you a copy of the application form.

Application process and timescale

The Trust operates on a rolling grants programme. There are no deadlines and there is never a wrong time to apply. Trustees meet four times per year and so you should allow up to 18 weeks for a response.

Small grants (£2,000 and under) are processed outside of scheduled meetings and have an average turnaround of 6 weeks. 

For applications over £10,000, the project will probably require a visit from an assessor or a member of the Trust Staff Team. 

If you wish to discuss your funding application before submitting it, we do welcome telephone or e-mail enquiries.

Who we fund

We fund registered charities, community groups and social enterprises.
Organisations with a turnover of over £3m will only be funded in exceptional circumstances. It is advisable to discuss this with us in advance.
National charities based outside of the North East will only be funded if they can demonstrate that they bring exceptional additional value to the region.

We fund faith organisations, as long as the activities are open to people of all faiths and none. If the application relates to the fabric of a church building, then it is helpful to telephone us to discuss this before making an application, as we have specific restrictions.

We cannot consider applications from individuals.  We do not fund research. We do not fund activity which has already taken place, or activity that takes place outside of our area of benefit.

Our area of benefit does not include Darlington, Stockton, Redcar or Middlesbrough.