Fidelity UK Foundation

Fidelity UK Foundation, established in 1988 and supported by Fidelity International, is an independent grant-making charity dedicated to strengthening the capacity, sustainability, and efficiency of UK non-profit organisations. Its core mission focuses on professionalising the charitable sector through capacity building, emphasising long-term organisational health, leadership development, strategic growth, impact measurement, technology adoption, and financial resilience. Guided by a theory of change that enhances charities' ability to deliver their missions, the Foundation prioritises four themes: enabling disadvantaged children and young people, health and wellbeing, arts, culture and heritage, and environmental conservation, supporting beneficiaries like youth facing barriers, mental health initiatives, community arts groups, and conservation efforts.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities based anywhere in the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland), with a preference for medium-to-large organisations boasting annual incomes over £1 million, regional or national reach, and demonstrated strategic ambitions. The Foundation proactively identifies fits via research and networks, inviting select charities to submit a short Expression of Interest (EOI), followed by a full application if approved; responses aim for four weeks, with rolling decisions throughout the year and no fixed deadlines.

Exclusively funding capacity-building grants—typically £50,000 to £200,000, occasionally higher for sector initiatives—Fidelity does not support project delivery, events, routine operating costs, or core funding unrelated to organisational strengthening. This laser focus on infrastructure and systems-level change sets it apart, ensuring lasting impact rather than short-term aid, with rigorous due diligence including site visits.