Isle of Wight Foundation

The Foundation supports projects that tackle social exclusion and improve quality of life for Isle of Wight residents. Its cause areas include community development initiatives that strengthen local networks, disability support projects that improve accessibility and inclusion, education and training programmes that build skills and employability, youth activities that provide positive opportunities, and services for elderly people that reduce isolation. Funding covers equipment, training, salaries for project staff, and project delivery costs. Priority is given to projects that take an innovative approach to local challenges, and all funded work must take place on the Isle of Wight. The Foundation is particularly interested in interventions that directly benefit residents facing barriers to participation, such as those with disabilities, young people, and older adults.

Eligible organisations include registered charities, community interest companies, social enterprises, unincorporated associations, and community groups based on the Isle of Wight. The Foundation welcomes grassroots organisations that deliver local impact and prioritises projects that benefit island residents facing barriers to participation, including people with disabilities, young people, and elderly individuals. There are no income thresholds, and applicants should be able to demonstrate how their project addresses issues in an innovative way. Faith groups, schools, and individuals are not eligible to apply for funding.

The Foundation does not fund core costs, events, feasibility studies, or activities that a statutory body has a legal obligation to provide. It also excludes land or building projects where ownership, lease, or permissions are not in place, activities that start before a grant is confirmed, ongoing staff costs (project-related staff costs are considered separately), and projects that cannot be completed within 12 months. Individuals, schools, and faith groups are not eligible for funding.

The Foundation makes one-off grants for project-specific costs, including equipment, training, project-related salaries, and delivery costs. It does not offer multi-year funding. Unsolicited applications are accepted, and the Foundation values local partnership and sustainable impact in the projects it supports.