Connecting Futures Fund Aims to Empower Young People in Sunderland

The Connecting Futures fund, worth £500,000, will be distributed to charities and community organisations working with young people in Sunderland. The programme, launched by The Rank Foundation and Greggs Foundation, aims to raise aspirations, build confidence, and connect young people aged 12-25 with emerging career opportunities in the city. The fund will be allocated over two years, with grants of up to £60,000, supporting activities such as industry insight days, creative workshops, and skills training.

Key Takeaways:

• The Connecting Futures fund totals £500,000, which will be awarded to charities and community organisations working with young people in Sunderland.
• Grants of up to £60,000 will be available over two years, empowering organisations to develop the talent needed by Sunderland's growing sectors.
• The programme focuses on helping young people access training and build careers in sectors such as digital, arts, manufacturing, and logistics.
• Eligible organisations include those working with care-experienced, NEET (not in education, employment, or training), and at-risk young people.
• Activities supported by the fund include industry insight days, creative workshops, skills training, mentoring, and support towards further education or employment.
• Awards will be made to organisations working in priority areas close to major developments: Sunderland West, Washington, and The Coalfields.
• The programme will run from Autumn 2025 to Summer 2027, with applications open until Friday 12th September 2025.

Statistics:

• £500,000: Total value of the Connecting Futures fund
• £60,000: Maximum grant value over two years
• 2 years: Duration of the programme
• £30,000: Maximum annual grant value
• 12-25: Age range targeted by the programme
• 2025-2027: Programme timeline
• Friday, 12th September 2025: Application closing date

Sources:

• The Rank Foundation
• Greggs Foundation
• "Connecting Futures Programme Launch" webpage, The Rank Foundation
• Image source: JPIMedia UK
• Caption: Applications are now open for groups working with young people in the city