Following a review of their strategic policy in August 2024 and the decision to temporarily suspend new applications, Steel Charitable Trust has announced a new funding strategy which is expected to be in effect for the next five years.

From 2025, the Trust will now offer two funding streams:

A new LUTON MATTERS Programme will focus on supporting projects in Luton that are broadly in line with Luton Council’s 2040 vision. Full details will be published in January 2025, and applications are expected to open in Spring 2025.
For the rest of the UK the Trust will support charities working with or on behalf of children and young people under 26, with an emphasis on creating educational and/or access opportunities for those in circumstances, groups, or locations that face economic challenges, social marginalisation or poor outcomes in later life.

Through the UK Under 26 Fund, project-restricted grants starting from £10,000 are available for not-for-profit organisations with an annual income of at least £50,000 in the previous financial year.

Applications for the UK Under 26 are taken and reviewed on a rolling basis. The trustees meet quarterly to consider applications.

The next deadline for applications is 15 January 2025 for consideration at the mid-March 2025 trustee meeting.

For more information, please visit UNITED KINGDOM Under-26 Fund