Grant applications: how charities apply and how businesses run grant programmes

This article explains how grants work on Neighbourly. The process is different depending on whether you are a charity applying for a grant or a business running a grant programme.

I am a charity — how do I apply for a grant?

Grant funds are available periodically depending on corporate programmes. If a suitable fund becomes available, eligible organisations are notified by email with details on how to apply. Applications are completed via a simple online form and progress can be tracked on your dashboard at neighbourly.com/mydashboard.

Key things to know:

• Grant availability is not guaranteed and funds may be restricted to specific impact themes or organisation types
• You can view the eligibility criteria before applying
• Applications cannot be submitted after the deadline
• If successful, you will be asked to enter your bank details and provide a supporting document
• Payments are processed once a week and take 3–5 working days to reach your account after being sent

Do I need a charity bank account?

Not always. In some cases payment can be made to a non-charity bank account if you provide a bank statement, confirmation from someone at your organisation that funds should go to that account, and evidence linking the account holder to the organisation.

Do I need to report on how I spent the grant?

Only if stipulated in the grant criteria. You will be reminded by email if impact reporting is required.

I am a business — how do I run a grant programme?

Grant and financial donation programmes are set up as part of your Neighbourly business licence. All financial donation programmes are administered by the Neighbourly Foundation (charity 1189514). The minimum grant to a single charity is £500. To discuss setting up a programme, schedule a discovery call at hub.neighbourly.com/business-enquiry.