The Fore is opening registration for its next funding round on 25 March 2026, offering unrestricted grants of up to £45,000 over one to three years. The programme supports small charities and social enterprises that want to take a significant step forward in their growth, sustainability or impact.
What the Fund Supports
The Fore invests in organisations rather than individual projects. Funding can support any activity that strengthens the organisation and enables development, including core costs, internal capacity building, new approaches, or expanding into new areas of work.
The Fore particularly welcomes applications from grassroots organisations working with underserved communities. It funds work across sectors, including health, youth, environment, housing, poverty, employability, arts and culture, women and girls, and more.
Who Can Apply
Eligible organisations must have an annual income under £500,000 in the most recently completed financial year. The fund is open to:
- Registered charities
- CICs limited by guarantee
- Community Benefit Societies with an asset lock
- Social enterprises
CICs limited by shares and CBSs without an asset lock cannot apply.
What the Grant Can Be Used For
Grants are unrestricted, meaning organisations can use the funding for:
- Core costs
- Capacity building
- Capital costs
- Growth and innovation
- Reaching new groups
- Strengthening sustainability
Applicants must show how the funding will move the organisation forward, not simply maintain existing activity.
Key Dates
- Registration opens: 25 March 2026 (12 noon)
- Registration closes: 1 April 2026 (12 noon)
How to Apply
Registration for the funding round opens on 25 March 2026 at 12 noon and closes on 1 April 2026 at 12 noon.
To apply:
- Complete the short online registration form (2-3 minutes) on The Fore’s “Applying for Funding” page.
- If allocated a place, you will receive confirmation and instructions on submitting a full application by 2 April.
- Applications then progress through three stages: a written submission, an online meeting, and panel review.
Successful applicants are usually notified within around 12 weeks.
Guidelines, eligibility details, FAQs and case studies are available on The Fore’s website. Apply for funding – The Fore