CHK Foundation

The CHK Foundation is a family-run grant-making charity established in 1995 and registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales (number 1050900), stewarded primarily by descendants of founder Sir Cyril Kleinwort. Its mission centers on flexibly addressing evolving social challenges through broad charitable objects, guided by trustee expertise in areas like traditional and organic farming. With a periodically reviewed strategy (2024-2029), it emphasizes proactive, trustee-led research over open applications, enabling adaptive support for pressing needs while upholding rigorous governance, including financial oversight and conflict management.

The Foundation prioritizes two core themes: environmental protection, particularly sustainable agriculture scholarships and practices that enhance stewardship of air, water, and soil, minimize external inputs, and balance environmental quality, economic viability, and social equity; and facilitating successful transitions from secondary education to employment for young people. It funds projects and core costs for charities delivering these outcomes, supporting both national and local initiatives across a diverse range of organizations, from grassroots to established bodies.

Eligible applicants must be UK-registered charities operating in England or Wales, with no income thresholds or size restrictions—though funding is strictly invite-only, with no unsolicited applications, enquiries, or public deadlines accepted. Typical grants range from £10,000 to £100,000 (often £15,000-£50,000 annually), including multi-year commitments but excluding capital projects, emergency relief, or unrestricted funding. Distinctive for its endowment-driven selectivity, family continuity, and trustee-driven focus, CHK stands out as a highly targeted UK funder ideal for aligned environmental or youth employability innovators.