Deadline: 07-Aug-2026
Trefoil Organisational Grants provide funding to charities and non-profits in Scotland that support young people with additional support needs. The program funds project-based activities, equipment, and services that enhance education, wellbeing, and social inclusion. Priority is given to direct service providers with strong governance and clear impact.
Overview of Trefoil Organisational Grants
Trefoil Organisational Grants are designed to strengthen organisations delivering direct support to young people with additional needs through targeted, project-based funding.
Key Objectives
- Improve education, health, and social welfare outcomes
- Promote inclusive and developmental activities
- Support therapeutic and recreational programs
- Enable access to meaningful experiences and opportunities
Key Grant Features
- Funding Type: Project-based (not core funding)
- Eligible Region: Scotland (or clear benefit to Scotland)
- Target Group: Young people with additional support needs
- Priority: Direct service delivery organisations
What Does the Grant Cover?
The grant supports a wide range of project-related costs that directly benefit young people.
Eligible Activities and Costs
- Education & Development
- Learning-based programs
- Skill-building and team activities
- Health & Wellbeing
- Therapeutic interventions
- Mental and physical wellbeing initiatives
- Recreation with Educational Value
- Structured recreational programs
- Outdoor and experiential learning
- Project Delivery Costs
- Specialist trainers or instructors
- Volunteer training and development
- Materials and activity supplies
- Travel & Accommodation
- Costs related to events or program participation
- Equipment
- Essential tools required for project delivery
What is Not Funded?
Understanding exclusions is critical before applying.
Ineligible Costs
- Core operational expenses:
- Salaries
- Office rent and maintenance
- Insurance and utilities
- Capital projects (e.g., buildings, major infrastructure)
- Redistribution of funds to other organisations
- Commercial or profit-driven activities
- Costs that should be covered by statutory funding
Note: Limited administrative costs may be allowed only if directly linked and proportionate to the project.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Organisations
- Registered charities
- Not-for-profit organisations
Mandatory Requirements
- Must operate in Scotland or clearly benefit Scottish communities
- Must provide audited or independently reviewed accounts
- Must demonstrate strong governance and financial management
Additional Eligibility Criteria
- Annual turnover must be below £500,000
- Must be a direct service provider, not a funding intermediary
- Activities must align with Trefoil’s charitable purpose
Why This Grant Matters
Young people with additional support needs often face barriers to accessing education, social participation, and development opportunities.
Key Impact Areas
- Enhances inclusion and equal opportunities
- Improves confidence, skills, and wellbeing
- Supports community integration and participation
- Strengthens grassroots organisations delivering essential services
This grant enables organisations to deliver impactful, targeted interventions that create lasting benefits.
How to Apply
Follow these structured steps to prepare a strong application:
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Confirm Eligibility
- Check organisational status, turnover, and location
- Define the Project
- Clearly outline objectives, activities, and expected outcomes
- Prepare a Budget
- Include only eligible, project-related costs
- Gather Documentation
- Audited accounts or financial statements
- Annual reports
- Supporting evidence of impact
- Complete Application Form
- Provide detailed and accurate information
- Submit Application
- Ensure all sections are complete and aligned with guidelines
- Await Decision
- Applications are assessed based on impact, feasibility, and alignment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- درخواست funding for core operational costs
- Submitting applications with unclear project objectives
- Failing to demonstrate direct benefit to young people
- Incomplete financial documentation
- Applying with turnover exceeding £500,000
- Proposing projects outside Scotland without clear justification
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What type of organisations can apply?
Only registered charities and not-for-profit organisations are eligible.
2. What is the funding used for?
Funding supports project activities, equipment, and direct service delivery costs.
3. Are salaries or overhead costs covered?
No. Core operational costs are not funded, except limited project-related expenses.
4. Is there a turnover limit?
Yes. Organisations must have an annual turnover of less than £500,000.
5. Can organisations outside Scotland apply?
Yes, but only if they demonstrate clear benefits to people in Scotland.
6. Can funds be used for infrastructure projects?
No. Capital projects and building-related expenses are not eligible.
7. What makes a strong application?
A strong application includes:
- Clear project goals
- Direct impact on beneficiaries
- Realistic budget
- Strong governance evidence
Conclusion
Trefoil Organisational Grants 2026 provide essential support for charities and non-profits working with young people with additional support needs in Scotland. By funding targeted projects and essential resources, the program helps organisations deliver meaningful, inclusive, and development-focused initiatives. Applicants should ensure strong alignment with eligibility criteria, present clear project outcomes, and focus on direct impact to maximize their chances of success.
For more information, visit Trefoil.