…Funding opportunity open for UK charities working in Commonwealth countries
UK-based Charles Hayward Foundation has opened its application process for grants of up to £15,000 for projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of disadvantaged communities in African Commonwealth nations.
The foundation is offering one-year funding to support grassroots initiatives that focus on clean water and sanitation, sustainable livelihoods tied to environmental conservation, and income-generating farming skills.
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Targeted support for community-led development
To qualify, applicants must be UK-registered charities with an annual income between £150,000 and £4 million. Eligible projects must be community-driven, include local training components, and demonstrate a clear exit strategy to support long-term sustainability once delivery partners exit.
The foundation is prioritising initiatives that are “deeply embedded in local communities” and will not consider proposals in areas such as disaster relief, general education, or overseas travel programmes.
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Focus on practical, lasting impact
The grants are designed to back practical interventions with a sustainable impact, particularly in areas that improve access to clean water, protect the environment, and strengthen agricultural skills that lead to income generation.
By focusing on these sectors, the foundation aims to support interventions that build resilience and offer long-term value to the communities involved.
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Application guidance and submission
Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to “review the full guidelines and submit proposals that align with the foundation’s focus on practical, sustainable impact.”
The Charles Hayward Foundation has a long-standing history of supporting work that empowers local communities through strategic, well-planned projects. This funding round continues that legacy, targeting key development challenges in African countries that are part of the Commonwealth.
Charities are advised to ensure their proposals clearly outline local engagement, measurable outcomes, and a pathwdfay to independence from external support.
