Postcode Culture Trust

Postcode Culture Trust is a registered Scottish charity (SC043234), established as part of the People's Postcode Lottery family and funded entirely by lottery proceeds, with independent board governance. Its mission centers on inspiring learning, understanding, and appreciation of science, music, arts, and culture across Great Britain, promoting universal access and opportunity through strategic grantmaking. Distinctive for its proactive, evidence-driven approach, the Trust identifies partners via sector research to fill thematic or regional gaps, emphasizing inclusive, sustainable impact over open competition.

It prioritizes charities advancing arts, culture, heritage, and science through innovative learning, outreach, preservation, celebration, and community engagement—especially projects fostering creative participation, education, and access for under-served or marginalized groups, including youth. Supported activities span national festivals, museums, performing arts organizations, and community-led initiatives that democratize cultural experiences and spark scientific curiosity, funding project work, core costs, capacity building, and occasionally capital needs.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities based in England, Scotland, or Wales (urban or rural), with no specified income limits or size restrictions—encompassing major institutions and smaller innovative groups. Unsolicited applications are not accepted; shortlisted organizations are invited to present in person to the Board on an ad hoc basis, with no deadlines or open rounds. Typical grants range from £50,000 to £500,000 over one to three years.

Exclusions include non-GB causes (e.g., Northern Ireland or international), direct people/communities support, and non-aligned activities. Uniquely positioned as a thematic specialist with robust due diligence and partnership focus, it champions lottery-funded equity in cultural and scientific landscapes.