David Laing Foundation

The David Laing Foundation, an independent family grantmaker established in 1979 by philanthropist David Laing—former Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire—focuses exclusively on strengthening communities in Northamptonshire through place-based philanthropy. Rooted in Laing's values of service, community empowerment, faith, youth opportunity, support for the disadvantaged, local heritage preservation, and arts/creativity, it adopts a high-trust, responsive approach that nurtures grassroots impact without rigid thematic constraints, prioritizing practical solutions identified by local charities.

It funds initiatives in youth development (e.g., skate parks, education), health and wellbeing for vulnerable groups (e.g., mental health, disability support), arts and culture, community infrastructure, heritage skills preservation, faith-based ethos, and poverty relief. Grants support capital projects, programme delivery, and occasionally core costs for registered charities or community groups delivering tangible benefits, such as those run by Adrenaline Alley, Northamptonshire Community Foundation, or St Andrew’s Healthcare.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and voluntary/community groups operating solely in Northamptonshire, with no income thresholds or size limits—welcoming small grassroots efforts alongside larger institutions. Applications are unsolicited via online form on the website, accepted rolling with quarterly trustee meetings and outcomes typically within four months; no preliminary enquiries needed.

Distinctive for its relational, non-prescriptive style emphasizing local knowledge and enduring priorities like youth, inclusion, and community fabric, it avoids funding outside Northamptonshire or misaligned activities, enabling flexible, high-impact giving aligned with the founder's vision. Typical grants range £5,000–£25,000, occasionally larger.