We fund organisations from any part of the UK whose work has impact across the UK.

Work based in individual countries may be funded where:

• The work is of UK-wide significance - this may be because of the issue tackled, for example, Scotland has the most substantial marine environment in the UK, or because the work is so exemplary or pioneering that it will be of special interest and relevance elsewhere in the UK; or
• The work covers more than one UK country - which could be a single organisation working across borders or a partnership of organisations in different countries; for example, an activity in Wales and NI would qualify; or
• The organisation is working across England

Our Environment category provides for a small number of grants for work in UK Overseas Territories, and exceptionally for marine projects outside UK waters. We only consider applications from UK-based NGOs.

As a responsive funder, we listen to what you judge is important. Our main interest is in supporting small to medium-sized organisations whose work matches our funding priorities. We believe that core funding is usually the most valuable contribution we can make. If you think a project grant would be best, you can apply for that instead.

We are aware that a modest core grant will have a limited impact on the finances of larger organisations. If your turnover is close to £10m a year, it may be better to apply for a project grant.

An individual application or grant does not directly have to relate to all three elements of our aim – relating to people, society and the natural world. An environment grant, for example, might focus on a particular habitat, with the individual and social benefits only becoming evident indirectly or in the longer term.

We are also interested in work which fits more than one of our categories. Such applications must be a good match with the criteria of at least one category, with a link to another being a bonus.

We recognise that rigorous research and policy analysis can provide the evidence and arguments to advocate for important changes in practice. We prefer to fund this sort of work if it is grounded in real life experience, includes the voices of those affected, and is likely to make a practical difference. When considering such proposals, your track record, expertise, knowledge of the context and understanding of how to effect such change will be important considerations.

Not usually, and not for their core work. Exceptionally, we may consider an application from a specialist unit if you are a centre of excellence and a leader in your field. Your work should:

• be distinctive and likely to make a practical difference
• involve partnerships with charities or NGOs
• have a budget that includes no contribution to overheads
• strongly match our funding interests.

Our minimum grant is £10,000. There is no maximum. Last year our grants ranged from £20,000 to £150,000. To get an idea of the kind of grants we award, take a look at the grants list.

Most of our grants are for two or three years.

For the majority of applications there are no deadlines and you can apply at any time. We make decisions regularly throughout the year.

Some work strands, such as the Regional Museums and Galleries Fund have an annual application deadline. Please click here for more information.

We will acknowledge your application within one week.

We have a two-stage application process. We aim to deal with all first-stage applications within 10 weeks, though most people will hear more quickly. On the rare occasion an application takes longer, we will be in touch.

Second-stage applicants are asked to apply within a month of being invited to do so. You should receive a decision within a maximum of three months.

One year from the date of the decision.

We usually ask you to wait for one year after the grant has ended. We may consider a continuation grant in very exceptional cases – please contact the Head of Grants to discuss this on dorothee@ellerman.org.uk.

We are always happy to discuss potential applications. Before you get in touch, please read our guidance.

We will only make grants to registered, excepted or exempt charities.