A limited number of grants are available to charities across the UK for new high quality projects that provide opportunities for people from all backgrounds to access, enjoy and participate in the arts.

Current Status
Open for Applications
Maximum value:
ÂŁ 30,000

Objectives of Fund

The aim of the Trust is to give people of all ages a better quality of life by enabling them to understand, participate in and enjoy the arts, particularly the performing arts (music, drama, opera and dance).

Value Notes

Grant awards generally start at a few hundred pounds.

The Trust has previously awarded multi-year grants of up to ÂŁ30,000 per annum, however applicants are advised that the majority of grants awarded are considerably less than this.

The Trust only awards a small number of grants each year.

Who Can Apply

The Trust mostly supports registered charities.

Applications will also be considered from social enterprises, community groups, and other third sector organisations, as long as they are formally constituted and have clear charitable purposes.

Priority will be given to small and medium sized organisations.

Restrictions

The following are not eligible for funding:

  • Contributions to general appeals.
  • Projects with the primary purpose of health, therapy or social welfare.
  • Religious activity which is not for wider public benefit.
  • Public bodies to carry out their statutory obligations.
  • Retrospective costs for programmes that have already begun.
  • Grant-making by other organisations.
  • Privately owned and profit-distributing companies.
  • Individuals.

If organisations are unsuccessful at either Stage 1 or Stage 2 of the application process, they should leave at least 12 months before applying again. Organisations that were successful with their application for a multi-year grant, should leave a minimum of two years before applying for further funding.

Eligible Expenditure

The current area of interest is in widening access to the arts in their various forms and having a lasting cultural impact on the community.

In 2022, the Trust is especially interested in supporting performing arts projects aimed at adults and projects which will benefit all ages across the generations. It is also keen to hear from organisations planning smaller regional festivals in areas where there is little arts provision, due to socio-economic circumstances or geographically remote locations.

Most grants will be awarded for specific projects, but the Trust will also contributions towards the core costs of smaller organisations where a grant could make an impact.

How To Apply

The Trust anticipates awarding grants in February, July and November 2022.

The Trust is currently inviting applications for consideration at the Trustees’ next meeting in July. The deadline is Tuesday 26 April at 12 noon.

The application process is as follows:

  • To start the application process, organisations should first take complete the eligibility checks which can be accessed on the Scops Arts Trust website.
  • Organisations that fulfill the criteria will be invited to make a Stage 1 online application.
  • A Stage 2 shortlist will then be drawn up and the selected applicants will be invited to complete a Stage 2 online application form.

Contact Scops Arts Trust for further information.


Useful Links