Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust
About This Funder
The Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust (registered charity 1121954), the philanthropic arm of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars—a City of London Livery Company—champions the historic and decorative arts through education, preservation, and professional development. Established to advance public understanding of fine and decorative arts, antiques, and antiquities, it promotes opportunity, excellence, diversity, and access via targeted grants. Governed by trustees from the Company, it operates independently, embodying livery traditions of strategic philanthropy with deep sector expertise.
It funds conservation and restoration projects, educational events, scholarships, bursaries, and initiatives enhancing diversity and access in historic/decorative arts. Beneficiaries include leading UK museums (e.g., Royal Collection Trust, Coalport China Museum), universities (e.g., York), and sector bodies like the Association of Art History for schools conferences. Specific programmes feature the Arts Scholars Curwen Lithography Bursary and MA Award at Sussex, alongside multi-year commitments to heritage artefacts and Lord Mayor’s initiatives, prioritising institutional sustainability, talent pipelines, and public benefit over core or unrestricted support.
Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or academic institutions based in the UK (no overseas focus), with a preference for established mid-to-large organisations; unsolicited applications are not accepted. Organisational grants arise via trustee discretion or invitation, while bursaries follow partner institution processes.
Typical grants range £500–£6,000, occasionally larger for high-profile projects. Deadlines are award-specific (e.g., Curwen Bursary: 30 May 2025; Sussex MA: 31 May 2025), with ad hoc trustee meetings and no central portal. Distinctively specialised, it avoids general calls, people-focused aid, and non-arts causes, standing out for its niche focus and relational, discernment-driven funding in UK cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust
How much funding does Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust provide?
Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust typically provides grants ranging from £500 - £5,000.
Is Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust accepting applications?
Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust is currently invitation only. Check their website for updates.
Where does Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust fund charities?
Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust?
Use Fundermatcher to check if your charity is a good match for Company of Arts Scholars Charitable Trust, then access detailed application guidance, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Our AI assistant can help you draft a compelling application.