Lord Mayor's 800th Anniversary Awards Trust

The Lord Mayor's 800th Anniversary Awards Trust, established in 1989 by Sir Christopher Collett during the City of London's 800th Mayoralty celebrations, empowers young people aged 17-24 to build self-confidence, broaden experiences, and enhance career prospects through challenging, self-directed projects beyond formal education. Rooted in values of initiative, self-reliance, broad-mindedness, and personal growth, it promotes experiential learning with an international outlook, enterprise, and practical skills, while fostering awareness of the City of London's civic heritage and responsibilities. This distinctive civic dimension sets it apart, prioritizing individual transformation over institutional support.

It funds diverse "education in the widest sense" activities, including overseas teaching/community work, wildlife conservation, international summer schools, expeditions (e.g., Raleigh International, British Exploring Society), Tall Ships voyages, medical electives, skills courses, arts projects like documentaries, and volunteering with disadvantaged children. Emphasis is on projects offering personal challenge, cultural/vocational benefits, and self-development, with examples like Mountain Leader Training, gap-year expeditions, and African conservation. UK-wide applicants are eligible, but priority goes to those with City of London ties via residence, study, or employment; only individuals qualify—no organizations.

Grants range from £50 to £1,000 as contributions toward costs, requiring applicants to fundraise the balance to demonstrate commitment. Unsolicited applications via email (lm800aat@hotmail.com) for forms and Mayoralty questionnaire; biannual deadlines are 28 February (projects May–December) and 30 September (December–May), with trustee meetings in April/November. Exclusions include routine academic study, passive travel, and organizational funding; post-grant reports ensure reflection, reinforcing its unique model for adventurous, reflective youth development.