Inspire Foundation

Could Inspire Foundation fund your project? Check fit free. Draft if yes — or shortlist better matches.

Typical grants: £15,000 – £150,000
Applications: Accepted
How to apply: Two-stage application
Decisions: Bi annually

Works for Registered charities, CIOs, CICs and community groups.

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inspire-foundation.org.uk

About Inspire Foundation

The INSPIRE Foundation was established in 1985 by orthopaedic surgeon Professor Charles Ian Donald. Its mission is to enhance independence and quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) through applied research into electronic, mechanical, and medical technologies. Shaped by a diverse board that includes clinicians, researchers, and individuals with lived SCI experience, the Trust values scientific excellence, collaboration, and tangible rehabilitation outcomes. The Foundation funds original, peer-reviewed research with clear pathways to real-world application, concentrating exclusively on SCI technology and translational research that may be overlooked elsewhere.

What Inspire Foundation funds

The Foundation supports applied research into electronic, mechanical, and medical technologies aimed at improving independence and quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries. Specific areas include neuroprosthetics, robotics, functional electrical stimulation, advanced wheelchair controls, and assistive devices for mobility, communication, upper limb function, and environmental control. Grants are directed to UK-based academic institutions and established research entities, with a focus on projects in UK universities, NHS research units, and multidisciplinary teams. The Trust prioritises original, peer-reviewed research with clear pathways to real-world application, particularly in areas that may be overlooked by other funders.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants are UK-based academic institutions and established research entities, including universities, NHS research units, and multidisciplinary teams. The Foundation does not accept applications from individuals or non-UK projects. There are no specified income thresholds, but grants are typically awarded to specialist clinical or academic groups. The Trust welcomes unsolicited applications, and its board includes individuals with lived SCI experience, reflecting a commitment to involving the community in funding decisions.

What Inspire Foundation doesn't fund

The Foundation does not fund routine healthcare, core organisational costs, commercial ventures, or direct services. It also does not accept applications from individuals or non-UK projects. The Trust's focus is exclusively on SCI technology and translational research, so proposals outside this remit are not considered.

How they like to fund

The Foundation funds original, peer-reviewed research projects with clear pathways to real-world application. It supports work in UK universities, NHS research units, and multidisciplinary teams, and welcomes unsolicited applications. The Trust values collaboration and scientific excellence, and its funding is independent of NHS sources, allowing it to support translational research that might otherwise be overlooked.

How much does Inspire Foundation give?

£15,000 – £150,000

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.

Deadlines & timelines

When to apply, and how long their decisions take.

Your specific fit

Income, location, legal structure and exactly who they fund — matched to your charity.

Good to know

FaithNo restriction

Focus areas

Disability

How to apply to Inspire Foundation

Inspire Foundation takes applications via two-stage application.

Decisions are typically bi annually.
Check whether your charity is in scope before you spend time on a full bid.

How it works

1
Describe your project. Once — used for this funder and others.
2
See if this could be a fit. Honest check on cause, place, size, and rules.
3
Draft if yes. From your real data — or move on if not.

See if Inspire Foundation could be a fit. Draft if yes.

Frequently asked questions

How much funding does Inspire Foundation provide?

Inspire Foundation typically provides grants of £15,000 - £150,000.

Where does Inspire Foundation fund charities?

Inspire Foundation funds charities operating in the UK.

Does Inspire Foundation accept unsolicited applications?

Inspire Foundation accepts unsolicited applications from eligible organisations. Current programme status is on this page — do not assume a round is open.

How do I apply for funding from Inspire Foundation?

Inspire Foundation takes applications via two-stage application. Decisions are typically bi annually.