Try for Change Fund open for applications
Comic Relief and England Rugby have launched the inaugural large grants programme following the success of the small grants programme launched in February 2017, and are now accepting applications for funding. Large grants of up to £100,000 are available to charities, not-for-profit organisations and rugby clubs.
Comic Relief and England Rugby joined forces in 2016 to launch the Try for Change Fund which uses rugby union and the rugby community to deliver social change in England and across the world. Over four years, £4 million will be raised by England Rugby and distributed in partnership with Comic Relief to support rugby for change projects.
Projects that use rugby union to tackle a number of social challenges are invited to apply for a grant. Proposals to the Try for Change large grants programme will need to demonstrate wider social outcomes and not just focus on increasing participation in rugby.
Proposals which target the most vulnerable and marginalised groups will be prioritised and proposals must work towards at least one of the following outcomes:
- Increase community cohesion/ social integration
- Improve educational attainment
- Increase employability
- Reduce involvement in gangs and reduce the risk of re-offending
- Improve mental and physical health
The fund is open to charities, not-for-profit organisations and rugby clubs across England. Organisations will be able to apply for a grant of up to £100,000 for work delivered over 2-3 years.
As well as existing rugby for change programmes, they are looking to fund new and innovative approaches. Due to the nature of the funding agreement, projects must be delivered in England.
The application process will be will a one stage process and we will be open for proposals from 4th September to 2nd October 2017 (midday). Shortlisted organisations will be informed by the end of October and assessed in November. Final decisions will be made by late January 2018.
Visit the Comic Relief website for more information.