STV Appeal
Could STV Appeal be a fit? Check free — then find open funders like them if not.
- Typical grants
- £500 – £50,000
- Applications
- By invitation only
Works for Registered charities, CIOs, CICs and community groups.
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stvappeal.tvAbout STV Appeal
STV Children's Appeal, formerly known as STV Appeal, is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation established in 2011 by STV plc and The Hunter Foundation. Its mission is to combat child poverty across Scotland, working for long-term, sustainable change for at-risk children, young people and families. The organisation is known for a distinctive funding model in which every donation goes directly to frontline projects, with administrative costs covered by STV plc and partner organisations such as The Wood Foundation. Core values of dignity, equality, inclusion and empowerment shape its practical approach. The funder favours transparent, catalytic partnerships that help grassroots organisations deliver meaningful local impact, including through public events such as Kiltwalk.
What STV Appeal funds
The Appeal funds projects tackling the root causes of child poverty across all 32 Scottish local authorities. Priority themes include food poverty, digital exclusion, parental employability and wellbeing. Supported activities range from food provision and warm clothing to training, employability support, mental health services and life skills development. Funding is delivered through two main programmes: the Ignite Fund, which provides multi-year strategic grants for larger initiatives, and Boost, a small-grants programme run in partnership with the Corra Foundation. The work aims to create practical, lasting improvements in the daily lives of disadvantaged children, young people and their families.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups working in Scotland. There are no religious restrictions. The funder prioritises work that demonstrably reduces child poverty for disadvantaged children, young people and their families. Strategic funding streams tend to favour organisations with an established track record of delivering in Scotland, while smaller grant routes may suit grassroots and community-led groups. All applicants should be able to show how their work addresses the underlying causes of poverty and brings practical support to those most at risk.
What STV Appeal doesn't fund
The Appeal does not fund capital projects, work taking place outside Scotland, or causes unrelated to child poverty. Its focus remains firmly on practical, frontline support that directly benefits disadvantaged children, young people and families living in Scotland.
How they like to fund
Funding is arranged through strategic partnerships rather than open applications for core streams. The Appeal operates largely by invitation, encouraging collaboration with organisations that can deliver measurable change for children and families. Grants may take the form of multi-year strategic support or smaller project-based funding, depending on the programme. The distinctive model means every donation funds frontline work, with operating costs covered separately by STV plc and partners. Public events such as Kiltwalk help raise funds and build grassroots engagement, supporting the Appeal's transparent and catalytic approach.
How much does STV Appeal give?
Typical published range. What your charity could realistically get — and whether you would clear their rules on income, location and legal structure — is the free fit check.
When to apply, and how long their decisions take.
Income, location, legal structure and exactly who they fund — matched to your charity.
Good to know
How to apply to STV Appeal
STV Appeal does not accept unsolicited applications. Funding is by invitation.
- A fit check still tells you whether your work aligns with their published remit.
- If you cannot apply directly, shortlist open funders with a similar focus instead of writing into a closed door.
What you can do here
- 1Check fit. See if your project aligns with STV Appeal.
- 2Find open funders. Shortlist similar funders you can approach.
- 3Save the notes. Keep the fit check if you are later invited to apply.
See if STV Appeal could be a fit — then find open funders like them.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding does STV Appeal provide?
STV Appeal typically provides grants of £500 - £50,000.
Where does STV Appeal fund charities?
STV Appeal funds charities operating in the UK.
Does STV Appeal accept unsolicited applications?
STV Appeal does not accept unsolicited applications.
How do I apply for funding from STV Appeal?
STV Appeal does not accept unsolicited applications. Funding is by invitation. A fit check still tells you whether your work aligns with their published remit.
Similar funders
Other UK funders with overlapping focus — not a claim they fund the same charities.
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