London Community Foundation

They fund projects addressing poverty and hardship, mental health, education and employment skills, community development, disability, and support for ethnic minority communities, LGBTQ+ people, young and older people, homeless individuals, carers, refugees, and those affected by domestic abuse. Supported costs include salaries, core costs, training, equipment, project delivery, events and transport. Their work is hyperlocal, focused on the London boroughs of Lambeth, Merton and Wandsworth, with a strong emphasis on grassroots organisations that have deep local ties. They are particularly interested in projects that are designed and led by those who will benefit, and that engage people not already accessing activities or services.

Registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs), community interest companies, companies limited by guarantee, trusts, unincorporated associations, and community benefit societies can apply. They prioritise organisations that are locally rooted and have a strong connection to the communities they serve. Beneficiaries include ethnic minority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, older people, homeless people, carers, refugees, and unemployed people. The foundation welcomes new applicants and encourages projects that are designed and led by the people who will benefit. Income levels are considered qualitatively, and organisations should be able to demonstrate financial sustainability.

They do not fund capital works, schools, statutory bodies, NHS organisations, or activities that are political or religious in nature. Purely commercial ventures, retrospective funding, and activities that exclude people on the basis of protected characteristics are excluded. Organisations with poor financial health, such as those with overdue submissions to the Charity Commission or Companies House, net current liabilities, or paid trustees without Charity Commission approval, are also ineligible. CICs limited by shares and companies limited by shares are excluded, as are Co-operative Societies.

The foundation makes one-off grants and supports both project costs and core costs. Match funding is not required but applications that have secured additional contributions are viewed favourably. They welcome unsolicited applications and fund through hyperlocal, responsive partnerships that prioritise equity and community-led decision-making. Each programme is tailored to the specific needs of the borough it serves.