Merky Foundation Limited

Merky Foundation Limited, established in 2019 by British musician Stormzy, is a UK charitable organization driven by a mission to tackle racial inequality, advance justice reform, empower Black communities, and address structural disadvantages faced by Black people across the UK. Building on Stormzy's Stormzy Scholarship at Cambridge University, it embodies values of social justice, equity, inclusion, and long-term systemic change, prioritizing hands-on founder leadership and high-profile philanthropy to foster equal opportunities in education, employment, and social mobility.

The foundation funds organizations, charities, and initiatives combating racial injustice, promoting economic inclusion, and supporting Black youth through multi-year scholarships, grassroots projects, leadership programs, and employment opportunities—such as its £500,000 grant to Black Heart Foundation and £10 million decade-long pledge. It backs educational equity, diversity efforts like Merky FC in football, and national partners driving tangible impact for Black beneficiaries UK-wide.

Eligible applicants are limited to UK-registered charities, community groups, and academic institutions with no income thresholds, focusing on those serving Black communities without religious restrictions. It does not accept unsolicited applications, instead proactively selecting partners on a rolling basis with no deadlines. Typical grants range from £10,000 to £500,000, emphasizing transformational multi-year commitments, project support, and capacity building over short-term, generalist, or capital funding. Distinctive for its laser focus on root-cause racial justice and Black empowerment, it stands out through strategic, leveraged gifts avoiding superficial interventions.