Geoff Herrington Foundation

The Geoff Herrington Foundation, established in 2015 to honor entrepreneur Geoff Herrington—who rose from disadvantage to success—focuses on empowering socially and economically marginalized young people to unlock their potential through transformative opportunities. Shaped by founder Dr. Sara Arber, its ethos emphasizes equality of opportunity, overcoming barriers to education and inclusion, and providing life-changing experiences for those excluded from mainstream paths, such as youth from low-income households, young carers, or those with learning needs. Distinctively values-driven and inspired by Herrington's story, it offered strategic, multi-year support as a catalyst for confidence-building and social participation, granting £2.1 million to 57 organizations before fully expending its funds.

It prioritizes UK charities advancing the education, development, welfare, and poverty relief for disadvantaged youth, including overseas aid in less developed countries. Supported experiential programs like Tall Ships Youth Trust voyages (£65,000 enabling 300+ participants), African Promise's Kenyan education (£9,981), and War Child UK's conflict-affected children initiatives, favoring projects fostering skills, self-belief, and inclusion over general giving.

Eligible applicants are strictly UK-registered charities (small to medium-sized with proven programs), based in the UK but impacting anywhere. Invite-only with no unsolicited applications or deadlines; now closed to new grants. Typical awards ranged £5,000–£65,000 (mostly £10,000–£30,000) for projects, core costs, or capacity-building, excluding non-aligned activities. Its legacy: targeted philanthropy amplifying excluded youth's potential via innovative, measurable interventions.