Will Houghton Foundation

The Will Houghton Foundation, established in 2016 in memory of Will Houghton—a passionate cyclist, student, and outdoor advocate who tragically died at age 20—aims to perpetuate his legacy by empowering underprivileged young people aged 14-24 to reach their full potential. Led by trustees including Chair Richard Wellesley Houghton, the foundation champions inclusivity, achievement, youth empowerment, and the transformative impact of education and sport. It distinctly partners with established UK charities to remove barriers, delivering sustainable outcomes like boosted confidence, skills, mental/physical health, and community integration through grassroots interventions, rather than running its own programs.

It funds projects at the intersection of education and sport for disadvantaged youth, supporting direct activities such as mentoring, employability training (e.g., SOFEA in Oxfordshire), inclusive sports for disabled children (Horizon Sports Club in Buckinghamshire), character-building interventions (Sporting Influence in North Yorkshire), and watersports access (Will Mackaness Trust in Dorset). Emphasis is on tangible personal development for vulnerable 14-24-year-olds UK-wide, with a practical focus on England.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, particularly small-to-medium grassroots organizations with direct youth engagement; no formal income limits, but preference for delivery-focused entities. Grants range from £1,000-£10,000 for specific projects—no core costs, capital, or unrestricted support. Unsolicited applications via online form are accepted rolling, reviewed at 4-6 annual trustee meetings, with decisions typically in 2-4 months; site visits may occur.

Distinctively steadfast to its origins, the foundation avoids generalist causes, prioritizing measurable life improvements via sport-education synergies, fostering partnerships that amplify local expertise for maximum youth impact.