John Black Charitable Foundation
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- Typical grants
- £100,000 – £1,000,000
- Applications
- By invitation only
Works for Registered charities, CIOs, CICs and community groups.
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register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.ukAbout John Black Charitable Foundation
The John Black Charitable Foundation, established in 2011 from the residuary estate of the late John Black, is a UK-based grantmaker dedicated to advancing health and relieving sickness. Its work centres on two disease areas: prostate cancer and Parkinson's disease, reflecting a focus on ageing-related chronic illnesses. The foundation values transparency, robust governance, and long-term impact, favouring strategic partnerships that leverage matched funding for research. It prioritises high-impact clinical interventions over general philanthropy, aiming to support work that could lead to cures or disease modification.
What John Black Charitable Foundation funds
The foundation exclusively funds research-driven activities. This includes clinical trials, therapy development, translational research, and support for early-career investigators. Its focus is on prostate cancer and Parkinson's disease, with an emphasis on projects that could lead to breakthroughs in treatment or understanding. The foundation supports UK-led collaborations, which may include international partners, and is open to large-scale, ambitious projects. It does not fund general community health initiatives or non-research activities.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and academic institutions, including NHS research bodies. Organisations should be of medium-to-large scale with a proven track record in health research. The foundation supports early-career investigators and welcomes collaborations that benefit UK patients. International partners may be included in UK-led projects. The foundation does not restrict applicants by religious context.
What John Black Charitable Foundation doesn't fund
The foundation does not fund core costs, operating expenses, unrestricted support, or non-research activities. It also does not support general philanthropy outside its two disease areas of prostate cancer and Parkinson's disease.
How they like to fund
Funding is invite-only, with trustees identifying partners on an ad hoc basis. The foundation does not accept unsolicited applications or open calls. It favours strategic partnerships and may provide matched funding for research. Grants are typically for ambitious, multi-year projects, reflecting a commitment to long-term impact.
How much does John Black Charitable Foundation give?
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.
When to apply, and how long their decisions take.
Income, location, legal structure and exactly who they fund — matched to your charity.
Good to know
How to apply to John Black Charitable Foundation
John Black Charitable Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications. Funding is by invitation.
- A fit check still tells you whether your work aligns with their published remit.
- If you cannot apply directly, shortlist open funders with a similar focus instead of writing into a closed door.
What you can do here
- 1Check fit. See if your project aligns with John Black Charitable Foundation.
- 2Find open funders. Shortlist similar funders you can approach.
- 3Save the notes. Keep the fit check if you are later invited to apply.
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Frequently asked questions
How much funding does John Black Charitable Foundation provide?
John Black Charitable Foundation typically provides grants of £100,000 - £1,000,000.
Where does John Black Charitable Foundation fund charities?
John Black Charitable Foundation funds charities operating in the UK.
Does John Black Charitable Foundation accept unsolicited applications?
John Black Charitable Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications.
How do I apply for funding from John Black Charitable Foundation?
John Black Charitable Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications. Funding is by invitation. A fit check still tells you whether your work aligns with their published remit.
Similar funders
Other UK funders with overlapping focus — not a claim they fund the same charities.
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