Macfarlane Family Foundation

The Macfarlane Family Foundation is a private family charitable trust governed by three trustees, dedicated to empowering UK charities that deliver direct benefits to disadvantaged, vulnerable, or marginalised communities. Rooted in a mission to create lasting, practical improvements, it emphasises alleviating poverty, advancing education, promoting good citizenship, and fostering resilient, cohesive communities through frontline services that enhance life opportunities, educational participation, and community engagement. Its distinctive ethos prioritises strategic partnerships with organisations demonstrating measurable impact, reflecting a highly selective, invitation-only approach that channels resources efficiently without trustee or staff remuneration.

The Foundation funds initiatives tackling deprivation and lack of opportunity, including educational attainment programmes, poverty relief efforts, and community development projects that build local resilience. It provides both project-based grants and unrestricted core funding to support sustained, positive outcomes, favouring charities embedded in UK communities with proven track records.

Eligibility is limited to UK-registered charities operating UK-wide, with a preference for established small to medium-sized organisations delivering local or national frontline services; no strict income thresholds apply, though emphasis is on mission alignment and impact. Unsolicited applications are not accepted—trustees identify and invite grantees directly on a rolling basis, with no fixed deadlines.

Typical grants range from £10,000 to £50,000, occasionally higher for multi-year partnerships. Exclusions include capital projects, emergency relief, and speculative proposals. What sets it apart is its laser-focused UK remit, absence of religious restrictions, and unwavering commitment to tangible advancements in education and poverty alleviation among the most needy.