FUNDING: Drapers’ Charitable Fund – next deadline May 2025

Grants from this Fund improve the quality of life and aspirations of people and communities, particularly those who are socially excluded or disadvantaged, mostly to charities in Greater London, for projects in education and social welfare, plus projects connected to the textile industry, textile conservation, military heritage and the history of London.

There are three key areas the Fund supports, each with specific criteria.

Education and young people seeks to support NEET young people into education, training or sustainable employment , improve essential skills of disadvantaged young people, support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to increase their academic attainment, or improve the wellbeing, resilience, self-esteem and engagement of young people.

Social Welfare encompasses homelessness, prisoners, ex-service men and women, welfare (hardship, community or family relationships, older people), and adult disability.

Textiles & heritage support includes conservation projects, skills and innovations, young people’s entrance into the industry, and memorials, monuments and museum projects related to the armed forces, the history of London or the textile trade.

There is no minimum or maximum grant. The usual award is up to £25,000 but larger grants may be made.

Applications can be made at any time. They are reviewed five times a year and applications will normally be considered at the next meeting following submission, providing they are received at least four weeks before the date of the meeting.

The next scheduled meeting date is 24 June 2025.

For full details and to apply, visit the Drapers’ Charitable Fund’s Grants webpage here.