Devon Community Foundation

The Foundation funds projects that tackle inequalities and strengthen communities across Devon. This includes a broad range of community activities, from addressing economic and health inequalities to creating opportunities and building safer, more cohesive communities. They also run Community Benefit Funds which provide grants for community projects and activities in specific geographic areas within Devon. Additionally, their Lead the Change programme supports young people to take a leading role in their communities. All funded work must take place exclusively in Devon.

Eligible groups include registered charities, CIOs, CICs, community benefit societies, unincorporated associations, schools, faith groups, community groups, and social enterprises. Organisations must be based in Devon or have strong connections with local communities and be able to ringfence funding for work in Devon. The Foundation prioritises smaller grassroots organisations and those working with disadvantaged communities. Groups with a higher income may still be considered, but the focus is on local, community-led initiatives.

The Foundation does not fund activities that worship or promote a particular religious belief, or that promote a particular political or religious belief. They also exclude activities that fall within statutory provision, and any part of trading services for which there would normally be a charge.

Devon Community Foundation offers grants through several programmes, including Small Grants, Community Benefit Funds, and Lead the Change. They welcome unsolicited applications from eligible groups. Grants are provided for community projects and activities, with specific funds targeting particular geographic areas or themes such as youth leadership. The Foundation supports grassroots organisations and aims to make the application process accessible.