This major funding programme is focused on the power of sport and physical activity to transform the lives of young Londoners (aged 4-24) – particularly those at a higher risk of poverty, social exclusion and discrimination.

The fund is open to a wide range of charity and community groups working with children and young people in Greater London.

It supports initiatives that:

• improve wellbeing (physical and mental)
• improve employability skills
• better connect communities
• improve safety
• reduce loneliness.

Priorities are groups that have faced structural challenges, such as those who:

• have special educational needs, are deaf or have other physical/learning/sensory disabilities; or young people with mental health problems
• have been, are, or at risk of being excluded from school or college
• are not in education, employment or training (NEET)
• have been, or are, associated with or affected by gangs and/or exploitation
• are experiencing, or have been impacted by, domestic violence and abuse
• are experiencing homelessness.
• are refugees or asylum seekers, or are newly arrived migrants; 
• have a social worker (including those in the care, with a protection plan, children in need and care leavers) or are young carers
• identify as LGBTQIA+ 
• come from low-income families
• experience barriers to being physically active. 

Foundation grants are for organisations looking to continue delivering impactful work in physical activity and sport, reach more young people, and become more resilient and sustainable.

They offer up to £40,000 for a maximum of two years (average grant likely to be £25,000 – £30,000) for project-based costs, core organisational costs, or both. They can support existing projects already taking place.

Organisations should apply if they are looking to continue delivering impactful work in physical activity and sport, reach more young people, and become more resilient and sustainable. 

Priority will be given to applications which are:  

• From equity-led groups/organisations (led by marginalised groups) and those developed or informed by young people, and/or organisations that amplify youth voice 
• From groups/organisations that are trusted by underserved communities and young people 
• Focused on reducing barriers to sport and physical activity for underserved children and young people with high needs 
• Clear about the role which sport and physical activity can play in achieving social change  
• Locally based, or from organisations with a direct connection with children and young people 
• Addressing gaps in provision and make the most of local facilities and existing infrastructure  
• Including additional wrap-around support for young people, such as supportive discussions or mentoring provision, to achieve the fund’s social outcomes  
• Focused on future sustainability of the organisation and activities, including a commitment to complete and act on Go! London’s organisational health check. 

Another opportunity to apply is due in Spring 2024. Check for more details at the Go! London fund website.