Ely Cathedral Trust

Ely Cathedral Trust is a charitable organization dedicated to the long-term preservation, maintenance, and enhancement of Ely Cathedral, a Grade I listed medieval church in Cambridgeshire serving as the mother church of the Diocese of Ely and a beacon of Christian faith, art, education, and culture for over 1,300 years. Rooted in stewardship and public benefit, the Trust applies its income—generated through asset management and fundraising—to safeguard the cathedral's historic fabric, choir, and inclusive programs, emphasizing excellence in conservation, musical tradition, and accessible experiences for worshippers, visitors, pilgrims, and the wider community. Distinctive for its laser-focused custodianship of this singular British landmark, it prioritizes transparency, ethical practices aligned with Church of England values, and partnerships for targeted impact over broad grant-making.

The Trust funds repair and restoration of the cathedral's structure, interiors, stained glass, and monuments; enhancements to visitor access via digital guides, educational programs for children, and outreach for diverse audiences including the visually impaired; and enrichment of the choral tradition through choristerships. Beneficiaries include the cathedral congregation, choir, staff, and local Cambridgeshire communities, with grants supporting exhibitions, tours, heritage education, and music initiatives that extend spiritual, cultural, and learning opportunities.

Eligibility is highly restrictive: funding targets only Ely Cathedral and its precincts in Cambridgeshire, with a Christian-only focus; no unsolicited applications from external entities are accepted, and there are no income/size thresholds or open processes. Trustees allocate grants ad hoc for internal priorities or aligned partners, with no fixed deadlines, forms, or typical amounts disclosed—recent expenditures exceed £730,000 annually for capital projects and programs. Exclusions encompass general core costs, unrestricted support, or activities beyond the cathedral's direct remit, setting it apart from wider heritage or church funders.