Funding Network
Could Funding Network be a fit? Check free — then find open funders like them if not.
- Typical grants
- £3,000 – £10,000
- Applications
- By invitation only
Works for Registered charities, CIOs, CICs and community groups.
Check fit free · no card
thefundingnetwork.org.ukAbout Funding Network
Founded in 2002 by Frederick Mulder CBE and colleagues, The Funding Network (TFN) is a collective philanthropy platform that brings together diverse individuals to support grassroots social change. Its mission is to catalyse positive impact for individuals, communities, and the environment by amplifying small, emerging UK charities tackling systemic challenges. Core values of collective giving, inclusion, openness, and empathy drive its distinctive live crowdfunding model, where members make real-time funding decisions at dynamic events. This approach fosters engagement, shared learning, and breakthrough support for organisations that might otherwise be overlooked.
What Funding Network funds
TFN supports a broad range of thematic priorities including human rights, climate change, environment, health, education, social inclusion, mental health, youth empowerment, refugee and migrant support, gender equality, and community cohesion. It backs innovative projects that deliver advocacy, outreach, service provision, and community development, primarily for marginalised and vulnerable groups. Grants can be used for seed funding, capacity building, and core costs, enabling developmental-stage charities to achieve tangible outcomes such as empowered communities and long-term sustainability. The funder operates across the UK, supporting charities that work at the grassroots level.
Who can apply
Only UK-registered charities are eligible to apply. The Funding Network prioritises small to medium-sized, emerging charities, particularly those working with marginalised and vulnerable communities. Applicants must be nominated by a TFN member sponsor; unsolicited applications are not accepted. The funder seeks organisations that are tackling systemic challenges through innovative approaches and have the potential to create significant impact with relatively modest support.
What Funding Network doesn't fund
TFN does not fund capital costs such as building or equipment expenditure. It also avoids funding large, well-established charities, focusing instead on small, emerging organisations. The funder does not accept unsolicited applications; all charities must be nominated by a member sponsor.
How they like to fund
Grants are awarded through a live crowdfunding model where TFN members collectively decide on funding at dynamic events. The funder supports seed funding, capacity building, and core costs, with an emphasis on flexibility and avoiding rigid restrictions. This participatory approach builds lasting relationships between funders and grantees. All funding is by invitation only, through nomination by a TFN member sponsor.
How much does Funding Network give?
Typical published range. What your charity could realistically get — and whether you would clear their rules on income, location and legal structure — is the free fit check.
When to apply, and how long their decisions take.
Income, location, legal structure and exactly who they fund — matched to your charity.
Good to know
How to apply to Funding Network
Funding Network does not accept unsolicited applications. Funding is by invitation.
- A fit check still tells you whether your work aligns with their published remit.
- If you cannot apply directly, shortlist open funders with a similar focus instead of writing into a closed door.
What you can do here
- 1Check fit. See if your project aligns with Funding Network.
- 2Find open funders. Shortlist similar funders you can approach.
- 3Save the notes. Keep the fit check if you are later invited to apply.
See if Funding Network could be a fit — then find open funders like them.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding does Funding Network provide?
Funding Network typically provides grants of £3,000 - £10,000.
Where does Funding Network fund charities?
Funding Network funds charities operating in the UK.
Does Funding Network accept unsolicited applications?
Funding Network does not accept unsolicited applications.
How do I apply for funding from Funding Network?
Funding Network does not accept unsolicited applications. Funding is by invitation. A fit check still tells you whether your work aligns with their published remit.
Similar funders
Other UK funders with overlapping focus — not a claim they fund the same charities.
Browse related grants
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Could Funding Network be a fit?
Check free — then find open funders like them.