Deadline: 20-May-2026
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation is accepting applications for the Young Island Lives grant programme to support employability and skills development initiatives for young people aged 11–25 on the Isle of Wight. Eligible non-profit organisations can receive up to £20,000 over two years to help young people overcome barriers to education, training, and employment.
About the Programme
The programme focuses on:
- Youth employability
- Life skills development
- Skills training
- Youth empowerment
- Social inclusion
- Transition into adulthood
- NEET support
- Volunteering and education access
The initiative aims to reduce poverty and inequality by helping young people build essential life and work-related skills.
Funding Details
- Up to £10,000 per year
- Maximum £20,000 over 24 months
- Funding provided in annual instalments
- Second-year funding depends on satisfactory reporting
Main Focus Areas
The programme supports:
- Employability skills
- Life skills training
- Youth participation
- Volunteering opportunities
- Access to education and training
- Support for young people facing barriers
- Community engagement initiatives
Target Groups
The programme mainly supports young people:
- Aged 11–25
- Facing unemployment or insecure work
- Excluded from school
- Not in education, employment, or training (NEET)
- Experiencing social or economic barriers
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-profit community organisations
- Youth-focused charities
- Community groups
- Voluntary organisations
Applicants must:
- Have experience working with young people
- Demonstrate strong youth engagement
- Show how young people shape project activities
What the Programme Supports
Funding may support:
- Skills workshops
- Youth mentoring
- Career readiness programmes
- Volunteering initiatives
- Confidence-building activities
- Employment preparation support
- Community participation projects
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Define the target youth group clearly
- Explain barriers faced by participants
- Show youth involvement in project design
- Present measurable employability outcomes
- Demonstrate organisational experience and impact
FAQ
- Who administers the programme?
- The programme is managed by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation.
- What is the maximum funding available?
- Up to £20,000 over two years.
- Which age group is targeted?
- Young people aged 11 to 25.
- Can non-youth organisations apply?
- Yes, if they can demonstrate experience working with young people.
- What types of activities are supported?
- Employability, life skills, volunteering, and youth development initiatives.
- Is NEET support included?
- Yes, supporting young people not in education, employment, or training is a key priority.
Conclusion
The Young Island Lives grant programme supports organisations working to improve employability, life skills, and future opportunities for young people on the Isle of Wight through inclusive and youth-led community initiatives.
For more information, visit HIWCF.