Allen Lane Foundation

The Allen Lane Foundation, an independent grant-making trust established in 1966 by Sir Allen Lane, founder of Penguin Books, champions progressive UK causes tackling marginalisation, discrimination, isolation, and stigma. Rooted in social justice, equality, and community inclusion, it prioritises unpopular, underfunded initiatives for overlooked groups, funding catalytic projects that address root causes through pioneering, imaginative interventions rather than short-term aid. Its theory of change emphasises resourcing small charities to foster integration, equity, and systemic impact, with a dedicated Social Cohesion Programme bridging community divides.

It targets seven beneficiary groups: asylum seekers/refugees (especially women), Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities; offenders/ex-offenders (focusing on female offenders and violence against women); isolated older people (70+ or in rural/deprived areas); those with moderate/severe mental health issues; violence/abuse survivors; and vulnerable youth (12-21 at risk of exclusion or leaving care). Grants support new/ongoing projects, core/unrestricted costs, and revenue needs for 1-3 years, favouring direct, people-centred work by grassroots organisations.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, CICs, and constituted community groups outside Greater London (UK-wide remit), with local groups under £100,000 annual income and larger ones under £250,000. Applications via online eligibility quiz and form (rolling basis, no deadlines; submit by early Dec 2025 for Feb 2026 meeting); quarterly trustee meetings (Feb, Jun, Oct); 2-6 month decisions. Typical grants £5,000-£6,000 (range £500-£15,000/year).

Exclusions: statutory bodies, schools, NHS, London initiatives, capital/property/vehicles, retrospective funding. Distinctive for transparency (360Giving data), hands-on grantee support, ignoring funding trends, and £25m+ invested in small orgs for lasting change.