Belfast Association for the Blind
About This Funder
The Belfast Association for the Blind, founded in 1871 as one of Ireland's oldest charities initially through 'Workshops for the Blind' in Belfast, has evolved from providing practical skills training like basketry and brush-making for self-sufficiency to a multifaceted funder supporting blind and visually impaired people across Northern Ireland. Its core mission emphasizes advancing education, training, and independence; funding medical and scientific research in ophthalmology (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration); and enhancing social inclusion, welfare, and quality of life for all ages affected by sight loss. With deep roots in Belfast, it blends direct financial aid to registered blind individuals and former workshop employees with strategic investments in university partnerships, particularly Queen's University Belfast, for research posts, equipment, educational programs, and international exchanges.
It prioritizes grants to organizations aiding the blind, including revenue/capital support for projects, core costs, capacity building, and high-impact research, benefiting communities through poverty relief, self-sufficiency, and innovation in eye health and data science.
Eligible applicants are limited to UK-registered charities and academic institutions operating exclusively in Northern Ireland, with a preference for established medium-to-large entities; grassroots groups are rarely supported. Unsolicited applications are not accepted—funding occurs invite-only via trustee discretion, proactive outreach, or known partnerships, with no published process, portals, or deadlines; decisions are made adhoc at irregular trustee meetings.
Distinctive for its substantial multi-year commitments (e.g., over £1 million to Queen's for ophthalmic initiatives) and rare fusion of individual welfare with institutional research, it excludes unrestricted/emergency grants, non-NI activities, and unaligned causes, positioning it as a targeted philanthropic leader for sight loss in the province.
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Medium Grants (£10,000 - £100,000)Frequently Asked Questions about Belfast Association for the Blind
How much funding does Belfast Association for the Blind provide?
Belfast Association for the Blind typically provides grants ranging from £10,000 - £100,000.
Is Belfast Association for the Blind accepting applications?
Belfast Association for the Blind is currently not accepting applications. Check their website for updates.
Where does Belfast Association for the Blind fund charities?
Belfast Association for the Blind funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from Belfast Association for the Blind?
Use Fundermatcher to check if your charity is a good match for Belfast Association for the Blind, then access detailed application guidance, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Our AI assistant can help you draft a compelling application.