Wembley National Stadium Trust

Wembley National Stadium Trust, trading as Wembley Stadium Foundation, is an independent charitable grant-maker established in 1998 (originally as the English National Stadium Trust) to harness Wembley Stadium's legacy and income for community benefit. Born from Sport England’s lottery investment in the stadium's rebuild, its mission centers on inspiring, strengthening, and connecting communities through sport, physical activity, movement, and performing arts. Core values of inclusivity, equity, fairness, and the transformative power of grassroots sport drive its independent governance, free from control by Wembley Stadium Ltd or The FA, with an evolving focus on tackling participation barriers, mental health, disability inclusion, and sustainability.

It prioritizes funding community-led initiatives benefiting children, young people, disabled people, marginalized groups, and older adults, including mental health programs via sports clubs, disability football with EFL Trust partners, girls’ football coaching, extracurricular school sports, and elder wellbeing activities. Brent receives anchor grants for local clubs, schools, and groups (e.g., youth hubs for vulnerable children), while London-wide and national strategic awards scale impactful projects like pandemic recovery or inequality reduction, emphasizing measurable wellbeing and social outcomes.

Eligible applicants are Brent-registered residents, voluntary groups, and grassroots organizations (including new ones under 12 months old, income preferably under £250,000), delivering projects for Brent communities via the "Love Where You Live" grants in partnership with Brent Council. Typical awards range £1,000–£15,000 for projects, events, capacity building, or small capital; national funding is invitation-only. Apply online via Brent's portal; next deadline 29 June 2025 (opens 30 May), with results in 12 weeks. It excludes non-sport/movement/performing arts projects and large capital works, standing out for its unique Wembley-tied identity, Brent priority with UK-wide reach, and blend of unrestricted local support and strategic partnerships for inclusive sport.