Active Essex Foundation

Active Essex Foundation is an independent charity established in 2016 to tackle health and social inequalities in Essex, Southend, and Thurrock through sport and physical activity. Born from partnerships with Essex County Council and local stakeholders, it targets marginalised, deprived, and inactive communities—especially young people at risk of crime, exploitation, NEET status, or poor mental wellbeing—using an asset-based community development (ABCD) approach. Its core values of inclusivity, partnership, and long-term change drive evidence-led, grassroots solutions that empower local strengths, build community cohesion, raise aspirations, and create fairer opportunities via movement and sport.

The Foundation funds sport-for-development programmes addressing youth violence, gang involvement, and anti-social behaviour; confidence-building for girls (e.g., BoxSmart on the Ropes, Girls Inspired); holistic wellbeing initiatives; community asset upgrades (e.g., Places and Spaces grants for halls and clubs); and capacity-building for frontline organisations. Beneficiaries include ethnic minorities, disabled individuals, women/girls, and low socio-economic groups in high-deprivation areas.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups operating exclusively in Essex, Southend, or Thurrock, with a proven track record serving target populations; it prioritises small-to-medium grassroots entities without strict income limits. Typical grants range from £1,000–£10,000 for projects, core costs, staff development, equipment, or small capital works, awarded via periodic online application rounds (no rolling or unsolicited submissions). The next deadline is 12 October 2025 for the Development Fund, with ad hoc trustee meetings 4–6 weeks post-closing. Distinctively, it avoids generalist funding, emphasising sustainable partnerships, peer networks, and system convening over short-term aid—no religious restrictions apply.