Lord Mayor of Manchester's Charity Appeal Trust

The Trust supports grassroots projects within Manchester City that tackle loneliness and social exclusion, protect and improve open spaces, provide positive youth activities, and help in the early years. It also funds equipment, training, and resources for education, employment, and entrepreneurship through its Manchester's Rising Stars Fund. The focus is on community-led initiatives that address local needs, with an emphasis on small, local groups. The Trust does not fund projects that are brand new or lack relevant experience, and it prioritises work that benefits the wider community rather than a small number of individuals.

Constituted community groups, charities, community interest companies, and social enterprises can apply, provided they are based in the City of Manchester. Applicants must live in the City of Manchester, and the work must take place within the city's administrative boundaries. The Trust welcomes applications from both registered charities and community groups. Organisations with a modest annual income are eligible. The Trust prioritises grassroots groups that understand local needs and have relevant experience.

The Trust does not fund retrospective requests, projects promoting religious beliefs, academic or medical research and equipment, or requests that replace statutory duty. It also excludes applications from previous Stronger Communities Fund recipients within 12 months, applications made on behalf of another, projects more than half funded by Manchester City Council, fundraising events, and projects that benefit only a small number of individuals. Private or commercial organisations are not eligible.

The Stronger Communities Fund provides one-off grants of a modest amount, and the grant does not commit the Trust to further financial assistance. The Trust welcomes unsolicited applications through its online platform. Funding is for specific projects rather than core costs, and the Trust does not provide multi-year funding.