Call for Applications: Dalian Atkinson Legacy Fund (United Kingdom)

The Dalian Atkinson Legacy Fund, managed by the Shropshire Community Foundation, aims to promote accessible sports opportunities for young people aged 5 to 25. This initiative focuses on grassroots football and other sport-led activities, prioritizing inclusivity and personal development. The fund will open on 2 November 2026, with applications due by 14 December 2026.

Opportunity at a Glance:

- Provider: Shropshire Community Foundation

- Opportunity Type: Grant

- Funding Amount: £1,000 to £3,000 per organization

- Total Funding Pool: £18,000

- Eligible Applicants: Community organizations

- Eligible Locations: Shropshire, including Telford & Wrekin

- Target Beneficiaries: Young people aged 5 to 25

- Deadline: 14 December 2026

- Project Duration: Must be completed within 12 months

About the Opportunity

The Dalian Atkinson Legacy Fund honors the legacy of the renowned Aston Villa footballer by supporting community organizations that provide sports opportunities to young people. The program seeks to remove barriers to participation, foster inclusion, enhance personal development, and inspire leadership among youth through sport.

Funding and Benefits:

- Grants ranging from £1,000 to £3,000 will be awarded to selected organizations. - The funding supports a variety of costs, including coaching, equipment, participation fees, transport, and new community sporting initiatives. - Organizations can apply for support in removing participation barriers for young individuals through well-managed projects.

Who Is Eligible?:

- Community organizations operating in Shropshire, including Telford & Wrekin, are eligible to apply. - Projects should target young people aged 5 to 25. - The fund does not support elite or professional development, commercial activities, unrelated club costs, retrospective expenses, or activities already fully funded elsewhere.

Eligible Activities or Priority Areas:

- Access to Grassroots Football and Sport: Supports young people facing barriers due to financial hardship, rural isolation, or other challenges. - Inclusion and Equal Opportunity: Focuses on under-represented groups such as girls, young women, young people with disabilities, and those experiencing social or economic disadvantages.

- Wellbeing and Personal Development: Encourages activities improving confidence, wellbeing, social connections, and positive behavior.

- Inspiration, Aspiration, and Leadership: Provides mentoring, leadership, and volunteering opportunities.

Why This Opportunity Matters:

This fund is crucial for promoting sports participation among youth in Shropshire. By addressing barriers and fostering inclusive environments, it helps young people develop essential life skills, improved wellbeing, and a sense of community.

How to Apply:

- Prepare Your Application: Ensure your organization meets the eligibility criteria and aligns with the fund’s priorities.

- Submit Application: Applications open on 2 November 2026. Submit your proposal by the deadline on 14 December 2026.

- Project Completion: Successful projects must be completed within 12 months, with progress reports required at 6 months and upon project completion.

For detailed application guidelines, visit the Shropshire Community Foundation’s official page.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can individuals apply directly for funding? No, direct individual bursaries are not offered. However, organizations can apply on behalf of individuals through managed projects. What are the reporting requirements? Successful applicants must provide a short update at 6 months and a final report at the end of the project. Can the funding be used for professional sports development? No, the grants are intended for grassroots sports and do not cover elite or professional development. Who can I contact for more information? For inquiries, contact the Shropshire Community Foundation at 01743 29 10 10 or info@shropshirecf.org.uk.

Next Steps:

Interested organizations should prepare to apply once the fund opens. Review the official guidelines carefully and ensure your project aligns with the fund’s goals. For more information, visit the Shropshire Community Foundation’s website.