Old Possum's Practical Trust

Old Possum's Practical Trust, established in January 1990 by Valerie Eliot and endowed in 2001 from the success of the musical Cats, honors the legacy of poet T. S. Eliot by fostering excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the UK's artistic, literary, musical, and theatrical spheres. Its mission centers on advancing knowledge and appreciation of historic, architectural, literary, and cultural interests, prioritizing projects that ensure lasting impact for future generations of readers, artists, and audiences through enterprise, cultural legacy, and public benefit.

The Trust funds literary festivals (e.g., Hay Festival, StAnza Poetry Festival), museums (e.g., Victoria and Albert Museum), libraries, colleges (e.g., T. S. Eliot Wing at Newnham College), artistic venues, performances, prizes, and initiatives in music and arts development (e.g., Sandy Hill Arts, Making Music). It supports children, young people, elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and the voluntary sector, backing project funding, some core/revenue costs, and exceptional capital grants for organizations promoting vibrancy in arts and letters.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities based in the UK, with no income thresholds, religious restrictions, or size limits—spanning grassroots groups to established institutions. Applications via online form are accepted on a rolling basis with no deadlines; trustees review submissions year-round, contacting only for further info or awards, without acknowledging receipt.

Typical grants range £500–£5,000, with larger sums for high-impact projects. Exclusions include personal training/education, completed projects, and feasibility studies. Distinctively tied to T. S. Eliot's heritage, it emphasizes sustainable, innovative cultural enrichment across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.