Wates Foundation Limited
Could Wates Foundation Limited be a fit? Check free — then find open funders like them if not.
- Typical grants
- £5,000 – £25,000
- Applications
- By invitation only
- Decisions
- Rolling (no fixed deadline)
Works for Registered charities, CIOs, CICs and community groups.
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watesfoundation.org.ukAbout Wates Foundation Limited
The Wates Foundation Limited is an independent family trust established over 50 years ago by the Wates family, owners of the UK construction firm Wates Group. Rooted in a multi-generational ethos of philanthropy and community responsibility, its mission is to create lasting societal impact by partnering with charities that align with the values of over 100 family members. Guided by principles of family stewardship, trust-based relationships, and flexible support, the Foundation takes a proactive, generalist approach to funding, emphasising measurable impact and resilience-building for stronger communities.
What Wates Foundation Limited funds
The Foundation supports diverse UK charities tackling social welfare, education, health, youth development, community cohesion, and the arts. Priorities include homelessness, mental health, vulnerable youth, family support, disability, and access to education and training. It backs frontline services, advocacy, skill-building, research, core costs, projects, and occasional capital, favouring well-governed organisations that address acute needs such as isolation and barriers to opportunity. The Foundation operates UK-wide with a strong emphasis on Greater London and the South East.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants are strictly UK-registered charities and not-for-profits of any size, from grassroots to large organisations. The Foundation prioritises work benefiting homeless individuals, those experiencing mental health difficulties, vulnerable young people, families in need, disabled people, and those facing barriers to education and training. Organisations should share the Foundation’s values and demonstrate good governance.
What Wates Foundation Limited doesn't fund
The Foundation does not support political activities or other non-charitable work. Funding is restricted to charitable purposes as defined by UK charity law, and unsolicited applications are not accepted.
How they like to fund
Funding is invite-only and based on relationship-focused, trust-based grant-making. The Foundation offers multi-year, unrestricted support where appropriate, alongside core costs, project costs, and occasional capital grants. It favours flexible, adaptable partnerships and does not accept unsolicited applications.
How much does Wates Foundation Limited 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 Wates Foundation Limited
Wates Foundation Limited 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.
- Decisions are typically rolling (no fixed deadline).
What you can do here
- 1Check fit. See if your project aligns with Wates Foundation Limited.
- 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 Wates Foundation Limited could be a fit — then find open funders like them.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding does Wates Foundation Limited provide?
Wates Foundation Limited typically provides grants of £5,000 - £25,000.
Where does Wates Foundation Limited fund charities?
Wates Foundation Limited funds charities operating in the UK.
Does Wates Foundation Limited accept unsolicited applications?
Wates Foundation Limited does not accept unsolicited applications.
How do I apply for funding from Wates Foundation Limited?
Wates Foundation Limited 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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