Schmidt-Bodner Charitable Trust

The Schmidt-Bodner Charitable Trust is an independent UK grant-making charity established on 1 July 1981 by founder Benno Schmidt-Bodner to advance general charitable purposes as defined by its three trustees, who exercise absolute discretion over capital and income. Governed by a small, unpaid board with no staff, it emphasizes conservative stewardship, rigorous financial management, adherence to Charity Commission public benefit rules, and flexible, trustee-led decision-making without fixed strategies or thematic restrictions. Its ethos prioritizes broad charitable impact across England and Wales, supporting established charities in diverse areas like health (e.g., Maggie's cancer support) and welfare (e.g., World Jewish Relief for vulnerable communities).

The Trust funds a wide array of mainstream UK charitable activities, including health, welfare, and general purposes, directing grants to reputable registered organizations rather than individuals. There are no specified priorities, exclusions by cause, or programme types—awards may cover core costs, projects, or unrestricted needs based on trustee judgment.

Eligible applicants must be UK-registered charities operating in England and Wales, with a preference for medium-to-large established entities; it does not accept unsolicited applications. Typical grants range from £5,000 to £25,000, drawn from an endowment yielding £26,000–£216,000 annually in expenditures. There are no deadlines, forms, or open calls—decisions occur ad hoc at trustee meetings.

Distinctively generalist and discreet, the Trust avoids international funding, individuals, or open processes, differentiating it through maximum trustee flexibility and support for proven charities without published criteria, making it ideal for aligned organizations approaching via networks rather than direct proposals.