Risman Foundation

The Foundation funds work across education, sport, arts and culture, social entrepreneurship, climate action and youth development. Priority themes include social mobility, educational access, arts enrichment, youth mental health, community leadership and environmental stewardship. Support is available for projects, multi-year programmes, capacity building, research, advocacy and social investment. The Foundation also occasionally supports core costs and individuals. Geographically, the focus is primarily on England and Wales, with openness to international thematic initiatives that benefit young people. Examples of funded activity include arts exhibitions, learning programmes, scholarships and environmental accelerators for young changemakers. The Foundation seeks interventions that unlock talent, foster skills, promote diversity and drive systemic change.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities that work with young people. While the Foundation typically partners with medium-sized or larger organisations, it also considers innovative smaller charities that demonstrate scalable, youth-focused impact. No strict income thresholds apply. The Foundation prioritises organisations whose mission aligns with its strategic, evidence-based approach. Because the Foundation operates on an invitation-only basis, organisations cannot apply directly; partnerships are identified proactively through the trustees' networks and knowledge of the field.

The Foundation does not consider unsolicited applications, so organisations not contacted by the trustees cannot expect funding. It avoids supporting non-charitable activities or unfocused dispersal of funds. General, untargeted appeals for support are not within its remit.

The Foundation operates strictly by invitation, proactively identifying and approaching partners whose work matches its strategic priorities. It offers a blend of funding types including project grants, multi-year programme support, capacity building, research, advocacy and social investment. The emphasis is on catalytic, measurable interventions that inspire purpose-led young people, rather than general ongoing support. Partnerships are developed through the trustees’ networks and expert knowledge of the sectors they invest in.