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The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists Grant Program in UK

Deadline: 06-Feb-2026

The Improving Access Fund and WCIT Charity provide grants to support disabled people’s equality, inclusion, and digital participation in Scotland. With £1.5 million available, these initiatives fund peer-led projects, technology-enabled solutions, and community-focused programs to reduce barriers, improve wellbeing, and strengthen civic participation for disabled people.

Overview

The Improving Access Fund is part of Scotland’s long-term Disability Equality Plan. It focuses on enabling disabled people to live the lives they choose, free from societal barriers, and supports organisations delivering impactful, peer-led initiatives.
Funding Amounts:

  • Total Fund: £1.5 million

  • Incorporated organisations: up to £80,000

  • Unincorporated groups: up to £5,000
    Funding Period: April 2026 – March 2027

Objectives

  • Promote Financial Security: Accessible advice services and initiatives reducing disability-related costs.

  • Expand Digital Inclusion: Access to devices, assistive technology, and digital skills development.

  • Enhance Participation: Civic, cultural, and community engagement to ensure disabled people influence policy and services.

  • Improve Mental Health & Wellbeing: Peer-led programmes, safe spaces, stigma reduction, and leadership development.

  • Strengthen Cross-Sector Collaboration: Projects that tackle discrimination and improve systemic accountability.

Who is Eligible?

  • Third sector organisations, community groups, and grassroots initiatives across Scotland.

  • Organisations must demonstrate governance structures and a bank account in the organisation’s name.

  • Priority is given to Disabled People’s Organisations or initiatives with strong lived experience leadership.

How to Apply

  1. Develop a proposal highlighting real community needs and measurable outcomes.

  2. Emphasise lived experience in project design and delivery.

  3. Identify revenue costs for activities (capital expenditure not eligible).

  4. Submit application before the deadline to secure funding for projects starting March 2027 onward.

Common Tips for Applicants

  • Show strong connections to local disabled communities.

  • Demonstrate measurable impact in equality, participation, or wellbeing.

  • Provide clear governance and accountability mechanisms.

WCIT Charity: Promoting Technology for Social Impact

Overview

WCIT Charity funds projects using technology to strengthen communities, improve efficiency, and deliver scalable social impact. Digital inclusion and accessibility are priority areas.
Funding Amounts:

  • Typically up to £15,000

  • Larger grants considered for established partnerships or ongoing initiatives

Objectives

  • Digital Inclusion: Access to technology, digital skills, and assistive devices.

  • Education & Learning: Creative, tech-based tools for digital literacy or learning initiatives.

  • Scalable Social Impact: Projects that maximize social return on investment or align with national networks.

  • Collaborative Funding: Encourages risk-sharing with other funders for increased value.

Who is Eligible?

  • Nonprofits and community organisations delivering measurable social impact.

  • Organisations should demonstrate clear benefit to beneficiaries through technology-driven solutions.

How to Apply

  1. Prepare a proposal showing potential for social impact and scalability.

  2. Highlight how digital inclusion or technology supports target communities.

  3. Emphasise measurable outcomes and practical benefits for participants.

Why These Funds Matter

  • Lived Experience Leadership: Prioritises the voices and input of disabled people.

  • Equity and Inclusion: Addresses barriers to services, financial stability, and community participation.

  • Digital Transformation: Promotes technological solutions that increase accessibility and efficiency.

  • Community Empowerment: Encourages sustainable, peer-led programs with measurable outcomes.

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding available from the Improving Access Fund?

  • Up to £80,000 for incorporated organisations and £5,000 for unincorporated groups.
    2. Can small, local groups apply?

  • Yes, locally based organisations with strong community ties are highly encouraged.
    3. Are capital expenses covered by these funds?

  • No, both funds focus on revenue and operational expenditure rather than capital investments.
    4. What types of projects are prioritised?

  • Peer-led initiatives, digital inclusion, mental health and wellbeing, civic engagement, and technology-enabled community solutions.
    5. Is prior charitable status required?

  • No, applicants do not need to be registered charities but must have governance structures and a bank account in their name.
    6. Can WCIT Charity fund large-scale projects?

  • Typically up to £15,000, with larger grants possible for established partnerships or ongoing programs.
    7. How are applicants assessed?

  • Emphasis on lived experience, measurable impact, clear need, scalability, and sustainability.

Conclusion

The Improving Access Fund and WCIT Charity provide critical support for organisations advancing disability equality and digital inclusion in Scotland. By funding peer-led initiatives, technology-driven solutions, and community-focused programs, these opportunities empower disabled people, strengthen local communities, and foster lasting social impact.

For more information, visit The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists.