Historic England Foundation

The Historic England Foundation, an independent charity established in 2018 (Charity Commission 1178368; Companies House 10564101), supports Historic England by enabling philanthropic fundraising and grant-making that the public body cannot directly pursue. Its core mission is to promote the conservation, protection, and enhancement of England's heritage assets—such as listed buildings, monuments, parks, battlefields, and shipwrecks—while advancing public education, research, and enjoyment. Guided by values of sustainability, public engagement, inclusion, and diversity, it prioritizes underrepresented stories, community connections to history, and partnerships that amplify national heritage efforts for long-term societal benefit.

It funds projects aligned with Historic England's priorities, including conservation works, community engagement, educational programmes, research into best practices, creative initiatives, and regeneration schemes like High Streets Heritage Action Zones, blue plaque projects for overlooked figures, and Everyday Heritage Grants for underrepresented communities. Beneficiaries include UK-registered charities, community groups, academic institutions, local authorities, and educational bodies delivering impactful, collaborative work across all English regions, with emphasis on innovative local schemes addressing national needs.

Eligibility is restricted to entities operating exclusively in England, with no income thresholds or religious restrictions, though it favors those partnering with Historic England. Grants typically range from £5,000 to £200,000 (most £10,000–£100,000) for specific project activities, excluding unrestricted core costs. Unsolicited applications are not accepted; funding occurs via invitation-only rounds, strategic programmes, or partnerships, with no open deadlines or public application process—prospective applicants must await targeted calls.

Distinctively, it bridges philanthropy and public heritage investment, flexibly supporting initiatives Historic England cannot fund directly, championing diversity in heritage narratives, and leveraging external resources for sustainable, inclusive impact.