Social Business Trust
About This Funder
Social Business Trust (SBT), established in 2010 by Sir Damon Buffini and Adele Blakebrough MBE, is a UK charity dedicated to accelerating the growth and impact of outstanding social enterprises tackling major challenges in education, employment, and health and wellbeing. It harnesses pro bono expertise from corporate partners like Bain & Company, Permira, Clifford Chance, EY, and Schroders to provide targeted financial support and capacity-building, emphasizing collaboration, sustainable scaling, rigorous selection, ambition, measurable outcomes, and business as a force for good. SBT focuses on organizations delivering tangible improvements—such as narrowing attainment gaps for disadvantaged youth, boosting employability for those facing barriers, and reducing health inequalities—primarily benefiting UK children, disabled people, marginalized groups, and the long-term unemployed.
Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or social enterprises based in the UK (England, Wales, Scotland), with annual income exceeding £1 million (or a clear trajectory within 18 months) and a significant portion from trading rather than grants. They must demonstrate proven track records, inspiring leadership, robust governance, and high-growth potential for disadvantaged communities.
SBT offers multi-year packages of £430,000–£800,000 over three years, blended with intensive strategic, HR, and operational support via secondments, creating a leverage effect where partners match cash with expertise. Applications are by email to info@socialbusinesstrust.org on a rolling basis, but unsolicited interest is not openly accepted; only strong fits undergo private-equity-style due diligence by the Investment Committee.
Distinctively, SBT avoids early-stage, grant-dependent, or non-UK organizations, one-off projects, unrestricted grants, or loans, maintaining a small, high-impact portfolio like The Brilliant Club and Twining Enterprise to drive systems-level change through deep, evidence-led partnerships.
Eligibility Checklist
Funding Details
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How to apply to Social Business Trust
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Describe your charity once and see how well you fit Social Business Trust's priorities — scored on location, cause, size, and 3 other factors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does Social Business Trust provide?
Social Business Trust typically provides grants ranging from £430,000 - £800,000.
Where does Social Business Trust fund charities?
Social Business Trust funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from Social Business Trust?
With Fundermatcher, you describe your charity once and see your compatibility score with Social Business Trust. If you're a good fit, you can start drafting your application immediately using our AI co-pilot — paste each question and word limit, and the co-pilot writes a tailored first draft using your charity's real data and Social Business Trust's priorities. You review and edit every answer before submitting.
Will funders know my application was drafted with AI?
No. The co-pilot uses your charity's real name, numbers, and impact data — not generic filler or templates. Every draft reads like it was written by someone who knows your charity inside-out, because it's built on your actual profile. You edit and refine every word before it goes anywhere, so the final application sounds like you — because it is.
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