Community Foundation for Wiltshire & Swindon

The Foundation funds work that tackles poverty and inequity, prevents or alleviates poor mental health, and supports children and young people. It also has a dedicated programme for older people, helping them to be independent, healthy, and socially included. Additional programmes support vocational training and young entrepreneurs starting or growing a business. Grants can cover core costs, project delivery, equipment, capital works, training, and transport. All funded activity must take place in Wiltshire or Swindon. Multi-year grants are available.

Voluntary and community organisations, registered charities, not-for-profit companies, and Community Interest Companies can apply. Applicants must be based in Wiltshire or Swindon and deliver services there. The Foundation prioritises people on low incomes, older people, and children and young people. It does not fund individuals, schools, statutory bodies, or charities that operate nationally.

The Foundation excludes health, animal welfare, and religion. It does not fund events, research, activities that duplicate existing services, or general arts and sports projects without a significant community element. Running costs for pre-schools and curriculum-based school work are not supported. For business grants, exclusions include salaries, debt repayment, rent or utility bills, purchasing stock, ongoing software subscriptions, international travel, new computers or tablets, invasive beauty treatments, software or app development, and single items above a cost threshold.

The Foundation offers multi-year grants, typically for one to three years, and supports both core costs and project delivery. It also funds equipment and capital works. Unsolicited applications are welcome. The Foundation works in partnership with donors and local organisations, and does not require match funding for its business grants.