Sir James Knott Trust

The Sir James Knott Trust, established in 1924 by Tyneside shipowner Sir James Knott following the loss of his sons in World War I, is a cornerstone philanthropic endowment dedicated to improving conditions for people living and working in North East England, specifically Tyne and Wear, Northumberland, County Durham, and Hartlepool. Guided by the ethos of 'deeds not words,' lasting legacy, local responsibility, and responsive philanthropy, the Trust stewards a substantial endowment to distribute around £3 million annually to hundreds of charities, prioritizing practical, tangible impacts that alleviate hardship, promote inclusion, and foster social mobility in line with its founder's vision.

It supports a broad spectrum of charitable activities through project funding, core costs, and capital grants, addressing social needs, disadvantage, health and wellbeing, education, heritage, disability, older people, children and families, community development, arts, housing, environment, and maritime initiatives. Beneficiaries include grassroots groups tackling youth engagement (e.g., Kids Kabin, Sea Cadets), disability support (Shine, RNIB), and older people's services (Independent Age), with a focus on voluntary and community sector organizations delivering direct local benefits.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, community groups, and social enterprises operating exclusively within the specified regions, with no strict income thresholds but a preference for small to medium grassroots entities; faith-based groups qualify if open to all. Typical grants range from £500 to £20,000 (averaging £4,500 for larger ones), with small grants up to £1,000 accepted year-round (decisions in 6 weeks) and larger ones reviewed quarterly (next deadline: 20 August 2025, allowing 3-4 months). Applications via online form; pre-submission queries welcome.

Exclusions include individuals, research, retrospective funding, and activities outside the geography; grants over 10% of annual costs or exceeding £10,000 may require visits. Distinctively, its historical depth, flexible generalist approach, and unwavering regional fidelity make it ideal for embedded North East organizations driving community change.