The Granada Foundation

The Granada Foundation, established in 1965 by Granada Television founders Cecil G. Bernstein and Sidney L. Bernstein, is a charitable incorporated organisation dedicated to enriching the cultural and scientific life of North West England and the High Peak through promoting the study, practice, and appreciation of arts and sciences. Governed by four trustees and advised by regional experts, it has awarded over £6 million in grants, guided by values of imagination, enrichment, and inclusivity, acting as a catalyst for innovative projects that broaden access, engage new audiences, and foster lasting regional impact.

It prioritises imaginative arts initiatives—spanning music, theatre, visual arts, literature, opera, cinema, festivals, and education—and science engagement, especially for public inspiration and youth. Supported activities include children's theatre, artist residencies, workshops, community arts, digital preservation, creative commissions, LGBTQIA+ projects, outreach to underserved areas, and collaborative festivals, benefiting the general public via both established institutions (e.g., Royal Northern College of Music, Science and Industry Museum) and grassroots groups (e.g., Africa Oyé, Cartwheel Arts).

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, community groups, or academic institutions rooted in or serving Lancashire, Cheshire, Westmorland and Furness, Cumberland, Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, or High Peak, with no income thresholds but a requirement to demonstrate other funding sources. Typical grants range from £500 to £10,000 (mostly £2,000–£7,000) for specific projects; apply via initial EOI form, then full application by deadlines like 3 October 2025, reviewed biannually.

Exclusions include core funding, capacity building, capital, unrestricted support, or direct individual aid; it uniquely balances arts and science equally, champions cross-sector innovation, and leverages grants to amplify broader resources, distinguishing it as a flexible, regionally steadfast funder for cultural catalysts.