Aims/priorities: The funding is intended for UK-based charities demonstrating measurable impact on improving outcomes for babies, and those that deliver integrated services through family hubs and other ‘one-stop shop’ models across the UK.
The funding is only for projects that:
- Support babies during the 1001 critical days, from pregnancy through to the age of two.
- Enable babies, families and carers to access support without shame or stigma.
- Are delivered in a family hub or similar “one stop shop” setting - ensuring families have seamless/joined up support.
- Make a meaningful and measurable difference to the lives of babies.
The Foundation prefers to fund projects which:
- Are free at the point of access.
- Support babies directly.
- Support a larger number of babies.
- Have a lasting legacy beyond the funding period.
- Have secured additional funding from elsewhere.
- Are delivered over a longer time frame, ideally three to five years.
Who can apply? UK-based charities whose work takes place in the UK can apply.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a UK registered charity.
- Have at least three unrelated trustees.
- Have been established for at least two years.
- Have at least one set of accounts published on the Charity Commission website.
Grant amount: Up to £100,000 per year for between two years and five years are available. There is no minimum grant.
Most grants awarded will fall between £20,000 and £80,000 per year, typically for three to five years.
It is expected that between five and 10 charities will be awarded a grant per funding round.
Application process: The guidance notes and application form can be found on the Foundation's website.
Deadline: There is a three-stage application process:
- Stage One: Expression of Interest form. The deadline is Friday 19 December 2025 (17:00).
- Stage Two: Main Application form. The deadline is Friday 27 February 2026.
- Stage Three: Meetings with Shortlisted applicants.
Contact information: Email: grants@1001cd.com
Website: Early Childhood Education Funding | 1001 Critical Days Foundation