Impetus - The Private Equity Foundation

Cause areas centre on educational attainment for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, including teacher professional development in English and maths, school leadership development, and work-related skills for 16-24 year olds who are NEET. They also fund work that improves school engagement and reduces exclusions and lost learning for students in mainstream schools. Core costs are supported, allowing organisations to strengthen delivery. Geographically, the funder operates across England, with priority given to Yorkshire and the Humber, and also supports work in the West Midlands and North West England. Some grant themes extend to Wales and Scotland.

Registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations, community interest companies, and social enterprises are eligible to apply. The funder prioritises organisations working with young people aged 11-24 from disadvantaged backgrounds, especially those who are NEET or at risk of falling behind. Applicants should be delivering work in England, with a stated priority on Yorkshire and the Humber. The funder looks for organisations seeking a long-term partnership and capacity-building support.

They do not support schools themselves, organisations that run or govern schools, or alternative provision multi-academy trusts. Work focused exclusively on alternative provision or special schools, or solely on policy, is outside their remit. They also do not fund teacher CPD for subjects other than English and maths, or interventions that work directly with young people outside mainstream school settings.

They provide multi-year core funding rather than project-based grants, and no match funding is required. The funding is paired with intensive capacity-building support, including strategic pro bono advice and impact measurement. Their approach is collaborative and evidence-led, with an emphasis on scalable solutions. Unsolicited applications are welcome.