Sapling Grants

We can accept applications from constituted, not-for-profit organisations supporting beneficiaries from Milton Keynes:

• Unincorporated associations
• Registered charities
• Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs)
• Sports clubs         
• Faith groups - where the primary project activity is community-focussed and not for the promotion of religion. beneficiaries must not be required to take part in religious activities, and no individual may be excluded from benefiting on the grounds of faith, religion or lack of belief.

What type of projects can it support?

Sapling Grants can support a range of projects and activities. We encourage applications that respond to issues raised in our annual Vital Signs MK report, address local needs, work in partnership, and aim to strengthen the voluntary sector.

What does the grant not cover?

• Core/running costs, except where these are essential to project delivery, or where they meet eligibility under our Cost of Living grant programme (for example, increases in utilities, rent, or staffing costs linked to rising living expenses)
• Statutory activities, or purchase of equipment that will become the property of a statutory body.
• Animal welfare projects.
• Retrospective costs (anything that has already been bought or committed to). Rare exceptions may be made where deposits are required. (Must be agreed in advance by a member of the Philanthropy Team).
• Medical Research or treatment
• Deficit funding or repayment of loans
• Unspecified expenditure.
• Contingences and miscellaneous expenses.
• Events or activities where the primary purpose is to fundraise.
• Redistributing funds to other organisations (except for specific partnership arrangements).
• Food and drink (unless vital to the project).
• Travel and accommodation (unless vital to the project).

How do I start the application?

To apply for the Sapling Grant Programme, you need to complete our online application form. Click on the button below to access it.

Read the guidelines to make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria before starting your application.