Martin Bowley Charitable Trust
About This Funder
The Martin Bowley Charitable Trust, established in February 2005 by Martin Bowley, is a grant-making charity dedicated to promoting the physical and mental health of HIV sufferers in England and Wales, supporting their families and carers, and relieving financial hardship for individuals under 30 training in the performing arts or working as playwrights. Guided by its founder's vision, the Trust embodies values of combating stigma, fostering well-being for marginalized HIV communities, and nurturing young creative talent through strategic, high-trust grantmaking by voluntary trustees with no paid staff. Its distinctive approach—combining HIV advocacy with targeted arts support—sets it apart as a niche funder focused exclusively on these intersecting priorities.
It funds HIV-related interventions like advocacy, stigma reduction, and health support through organizations such as National AIDS Trust, Terrence Higgins Trust, and The JMK Trust, alongside smaller grants for young performers' training costs and playwrights facing hardship. Beneficiaries include small to medium charities (often under £1 million income) and exceptional individuals delivering direct impact for HIV-affected groups or emerging artists.
Eligible applicants are strictly UK-registered charities or individuals based in England and Wales aligning with these objectives; the Trust shows preference for targeted, marginalized-focused work over generalist efforts. It does not accept unsolicited applications, operating on an invite-only basis via trustee discretion, referrals, and ad hoc meetings with no published deadlines, guidance, or open calls.
Grants typically range from £500–£2,000 for individuals to £5,000–£20,000 for organizations, supporting projects, unrestricted activities, or career development but excluding core costs, capital projects, or anything outside its core themes. This quietly impactful, founder-led ethos ensures sustained, relationship-driven funding uniquely bridging health inequality and youth arts opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Martin Bowley Charitable Trust
How much funding does Martin Bowley Charitable Trust provide?
Martin Bowley Charitable Trust typically provides grants ranging from £500 - £20,000.
Is Martin Bowley Charitable Trust accepting applications?
Martin Bowley Charitable Trust is currently invitation only. Check their website for updates.
Where does Martin Bowley Charitable Trust fund charities?
Martin Bowley Charitable Trust funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from Martin Bowley Charitable Trust?
Use Fundermatcher to check if your charity is a good match for Martin Bowley Charitable Trust, then access detailed application guidance, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Our AI assistant can help you draft a compelling application.