Exeter Chiefs Foundation

The Foundation supports local charities and community groups working in Exeter, East Devon, and Mid Devon, with a priority for the Greater Exeter area. Its project grants cover capital works and equipment, such as building renovations, play equipment, IT suites, minibuses, community kitchens, and specialist access equipment. Cause areas include poverty and hardship relief, education and skills, care for older people, disability support, children and youth services, physical health, community development, and faith-based initiatives. The Foundation is particularly drawn to projects that can be used repeatedly, ensuring the benefit lasts well beyond the initial grant.

Registered charities and community groups based in Exeter, East Devon, or Mid Devon are the main applicants for the Foundation's project grants. The Foundation prioritises grassroots, self-funded local organisations and does not require match funding. It supports work benefiting older people, disadvantaged children, people with disabilities, and those in poverty. The Foundation also runs a separate benevolent fund for former senior players of Exeter Rugby Club, offering one-off assistance in times of hardship.

Project grants exclude salaries, schools, individuals, and sponsorship of challenges or individuals. The benevolent fund does not sponsor individuals for fundraising events and is unable to provide ongoing support; it focuses instead on one-off claims for specialised equipment, medical or legal costs, or other professional help.

The Foundation provides project grants for capital works and equipment, with no match funding required. It favours tangible assets that can be used repeatedly, rather than salaries or one-off events. The Foundation welcomes unsolicited applications from eligible local organisations, and also supports local charities through match-day designated charity collections.