The Veterans’ Foundation has launched a new Major Grants Programme for 2026, designed to fund collaborative, innovative projects that support the UK armed forces community. The fund is aimed at partnerships working to improve outcomes for serving personnel, veterans, operationally qualified seafarers and their immediate families.
This programme marks the VF’s 10th anniversary and focuses on sector-wide learning and partnership-driven innovation. Grants of £200,000–£500,000 are available for partnership projects lasting 12–24 months, with each award supported by an independent learning partner.
About the Programme
The fund is intended for projects that test new approaches, generate insights, or strengthen cross‑sector collaboration. Proposals must involve at least two organisations, with a UK‑registered charity or CIC (Ltd by Guarantee) acting as the lead partner and having an income of over £100,000. Partnerships may be new or existing but must demonstrate how Major Grant funding will add value beyond current activity.
Projects should align with one or more of the Veterans’ Foundation’s key priority areas:
- Community & Relationships
- Employment, Education & Skills
- Health & Wellbeing
- Housing & Homelessness
- Tackling Disadvantage
The VF encourages bold ideas, including action‑learning pilots, feasibility studies and impact research.
Application Process
The programme uses a two‑stage application process:
- Stage 1 – Expression of Interest
Opens Monday 2 March 2026 and closes Monday 20 April 2026.
Successful applicants receive a small Development Grant (up to £10,000). - Stage 2 – Application Development
July–September 2026, including participation in a Theory of Change workshop.
Final decisions will be shared by 30 October 2026.
A full list of required documents and eligibility details is available in the official guidance.
Webinar Recording
A pre‑application Q&A webinar was held on 3 March 2026.
Find Out More & Apply
For questions, applicants can email the Veterans’ Foundation Grants Team at grants@veteransfoundation.org.uk.