Frank Branston Fund

The Frank Branston Fund is managed by Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation and provides financial support to organizations that directly benefit Bedfordshire residents across a wide range of activities. The Frank Branston Charitable Trust was established in memory of Frank Branston, newspaper proprietor and Bedford's first elected mayor who died in 2009. Through his work as a newspaper proprietor and later as mayor, Frank gave voice to and supported many local organisations, and the Trust continues this legacy. The fund offers two grant levels: Micro grants between £500-£2,000 for smaller interventions and shorter projects or activities, and Main grants between £2,000-£10,000 for more substantial activity lasting up to one year of delivery (until June 2026). The main objectives include the advancement of health, saving lives, and supporting care needs in the community; supporting arts, culture and heritage within the community; the alleviation of poverty; and access to education and training. Applicants must demonstrate that their project meets one of the fund priorities outlined above and serves Bedfordshire residents. The fund operates through an Expression of Interest process, where organizations that closely align with fund priorities are contacted by the Grants Team to discuss possible applications, with selected organizations then invited to submit full applications.