How much is on offer: Last year, the foundation made grants totalling30m, two-thirds of which were allocated through the Main Fund.The average grant is about 50,000, although applications for moreor less money are also considered.
What it will fund: The foundation is open to suggestions on benefitingcharitable organisations in innovative ways. It is particularlyinterested in work that addresses a significant gap in provision,challenges convention or sets out to influence policy. Grants will fundcore project expenses but will not cover extras like equipmentcosts.
Who can apply: The Main Fund is only open to organisations that carryout legal charitable work in the UK. It will not support organisationscarrying out work that is primarily the responsibility of government,health trusts or health authorities. Neither will it fund any projectthat primarily benefits the independent education sector.
Who it has funded: Auditory Verbal UK received 90,000 over threeyears towards the salary of a family liaison officer to support hearingimpaired children. And the Bridges Project was awarded 62,720 forits Way2Work scheme, which helps disadvantaged young people in EastLothian and Midlothian.
How to apply: Guidance can be downloaded from www.esmeefairbairn.org.uk.Applications are accepted by post to Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, 11 ParkPlace, London, SW1A 1LP or by email toapplications@esmeefairbairn.org.uk.
