Robertson Trust

The Robertson Trust, Scotland's largest independent grant-making trust, was founded in 1961 by sisters Elspeth, Agnes, and Ethel Robertson, who donated their family whisky business shares (now Edrington) to support those in need. Rooted in values of honesty, integrity, compassion, and aspiration, its mission is to prevent and reduce poverty and trauma across Scotland, investing £200-£250 million through its 2020-2030 strategy in evidence-led solutions for long-term systemic change. It emphasises four priorities—Financial Security, Education Pathways, Work Pathways, and Nurturing Relationships—with cross-cutting commitments to equity, diversity, participation, rights, and climate action, funding holistic interventions like financial hardship relief, employment barriers, educational exclusion, childhood adversity, care-experienced youth, homelessness recovery, substance misuse, and offending.

It supports children, at-risk families, lone parents, disabled people, and disadvantaged students via programmes such as the Robertson Trust Scholarship and Journey to Success (aiding 700+ university students yearly). Grants cover revenue/core costs, projects, capacity building, and social investments for grassroots groups to larger charities, prioritising participatory designs involving experts by experience and demonstrable Scottish impact.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups with incomes from under £30,000 (Wee Grants) to £200,000–£2 million (Large Grants), operating exclusively in Scotland. Typical grants range £2,000–£50,000 (Wee: up to £5,000/1 year; Small: £2,000–£15,000/up to 3 years; Large: £15,000–£50,000/up to 5 years). Unsolicited online applications are accepted on a rolling basis (10–12 week decisions), with some themed calls having deadlines—check website for opens/pauses. Exclusions include capital projects, retrospective costs, and non-poverty/trauma activities. Distinctive for its Edrington-derived independence, relationship-focused ethos, storytelling, and multi-asset leverage (funds, voice, networks) for prevention and social justice.