Cardiff YMCA (1910) Trust

Cardiff YMCA (1910) Trust, established in 1910 to support Cardiff YMCA's charitable work in South Wales, is a grant-making trust dedicated to fostering the educational, social, physical, and psychological development of communities, with a modern emphasis on relieving homelessness and meeting young people's needs. Rooted in YMCA values of inclusivity, ethical practice, transparency, and community transformation, it empowers vulnerable groups through outcome-focused funding that prioritises measurable impacts on quality of life, wellbeing, and inclusion. Distinctive for its historic YMCA ties, it strategically backs transformative projects, blending traditional ethos with innovative solutions like safe housing for at-risk youth.

The Trust funds voluntary and charitable organisations addressing youth development, homelessness prevention, mental/physical/emotional wellbeing, and community cohesion, supporting projects such as young carers' trips, homelessness services, accessible gardens, youth centres, and innovative housing. Grants cover capital costs (buildings, equipment) and revenue for specific activities, excluding core or unrestricted funding.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups working exclusively in South Wales (focusing on Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan, Newport), with no income thresholds but preferences for small/medium-sized entities showing financial viability for major bids; grassroots groups qualify, but profit-making enterprises and those funded in the last two years are excluded. Applications via email (with eligibility checklist, finances, cost breakdowns) are unsolicited and rolling for £250–£5,000 grants, reviewed quarterly (17 Jan, 18 Apr, 18 Jul, 17 Oct 2025); larger grants up to £30,000/year (£90,000 over 3 years) follow an annual timetable with shortlisting in October. Decisions within 7 working days; monitoring reports required.