Colwinston Charitable Trust

The Colwinston Charitable Trust, established in 1995 by Mathew Prichard CBE, sustains and supports high-quality artistic activities that enrich UK cultural life, with over 80% of grants directed to Wales. Funded primarily by royalties from Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap, its mission emphasizes excellence in live performing arts and visual arts, nurturing talent, fostering collaborations, and enhancing opportunities for young people through library and archive projects. Overseen by five trustees meeting biannually, the Trust prioritizes opera, music, theatre, visual arts initiatives, and arts archives, as seen in grants like £20,000 to Mousetrap Theatre Projects and £50,000 to National Museum Wales.

It funds specific, high-caliber projects delivered by UK-registered charities, favoring those benefiting Wales or expanding arts access and engagement, particularly among youth. Medium-sized organizations with proven impact receive preference, though all sizes are considered if demonstrating artistic merit; no strict income limits apply, but longstanding partners secure larger strategic awards.

Unsolicited applications from UK-registered charities are welcomed via email (colwinstontrust@colwinston.org.uk) using the 4-page official form, with biannual deadlines of 31 March and 30 September—next is 30 September 2025—for May and November meetings, decisions in 6-8 weeks. Typical grants range £5,000-£50,000 (average £15,000-£25,000), mainly for projects, occasionally core funding for festivals.

Exclusions include general operating costs, non-arts capital campaigns, individuals, and non-charities. Distinctively, its Wales-centric arts focus, theatrical legacy funding source, and emphasis on collaborative excellence make it ideal for charities advancing cultural vitality in performing and visual arts.