Syncona Foundation

The foundation prioritises organisations that enhance patient outcomes across several areas. These include cancer research and treatment, neurodegenerative diseases, gene therapy, inherited eye diseases and glaucoma, palliative and end-of-life care, and children’s mental health. It also supports STEM pathways for low-income or underrepresented youth. Funded activities span translational research, direct clinical support, NHS and community care, and social mobility initiatives. Geographically, the foundation works UK-wide with no sub-regional limits, benefiting patients and communities affected by serious illnesses as well as disadvantaged groups.

Eligible entities are UK-registered charities or academic institutions with national-scale operations and substantial income. Small or grassroots groups are not supported. The foundation seeks organisations that can demonstrate significant reach and capacity to deliver impact in the priority areas. Beneficiaries include UK patients and communities living with serious illnesses, and disadvantaged groups, particularly young people from low-income or underrepresented backgrounds.

The foundation does not support small or grassroots organisations, nor does it provide short-term or restricted grants. It also does not fund organisations without national-scale operations and substantial income. It focuses exclusively on long-term, unrestricted partnerships that enable strategic capacity building and core cost support.

The foundation works exclusively by invitation and does not accept unsolicited applications. It offers long-term, unrestricted, multi-year grants that cover core costs, capacity building and strategic projects. Partnerships are trust-based, with active involvement from trustees who provide professional networks and strategic advice.