Samworth Brothers Community Opportunity Fund

The fund supports projects in sport, recreation, children and youth, with a strong emphasis on improving young people's experience of sport/recreation and food, nutrition or cooking. Eligible activities include project delivery, equipment, capital works, training, events and transport. Grants are for work in areas where a Samworth Brothers business is a key part of the local community, notably Leicestershire (including Leicester and Melton Mowbray), Cornwall (including Callington and Plymouth), Devon, Gloucestershire and Trafford. Priority is given to projects that extend capacity, get more people qualified or trained, put on new sessions or events, or improve young people's participation in sport, recreation or healthy eating.

Registered charities, community groups and sports clubs can apply. The fund supports organisations working with young people and disabled people. Projects must be based in the qualifying areas where Samworth Brothers has a strong local presence. Individuals are not eligible. The fund looks for projects that demonstrate a clear plan for expansion and sustainability, and that aim to improve young people's experience of sport, recreation or food and nutrition. It welcomes applications from grassroots organisations and community-led initiatives.

The fund does not support fundraising appeals, sponsorship, expeditions or fundraising challenges. It will not replace statutory funding, for example in schools, nor cover property or ground rent. Salaries are excluded, as are projects that focus on adults. Applications from individuals are not accepted.

The fund offers both one-off project grants and multi-year funding of up to three years. It supports project costs, equipment, capital works, training, events and transport, but not salaries. Unsolicited applications are welcome, and the fund has two routes: one via colleague nomination and one open to all eligible organisations. It prioritises projects that show how they will sustain activities beyond the grant period.