Calling all organisations with innovative ways to encourage aspiration!

Sussex Learning Network is inviting all community organisations across Sussex that encourage aspiration amongst young learners to apply for new grants from its SLN Community Fund.

The newly created fund seeks to identify, encourage and strengthen initiatives designed to motivate currently underrepresented learners to aim high and progress into higher-level education. The young people being inspired and supported can be from any group that is underrepresented in higher education or faces significant barriers, including young carers, looked after children, care leavers, black, Asian, and minority ethnic learners, Gypsy, Roma Traveller (GRT) learners and those receiving free school meals.

The maximum grant available is £5000 per project. Projects seeking smaller amounts of funding are welcome to apply. For full guidance on applying click here. 

To be considered, all applications must be able to provide evidence that:

·      The funding will go directly to support families in Sussex

·      The funding will support the young people and families most in need

·      Their organisation is registered to Companies House or the Charity Commission and has clear financial structures in place

Deadline for applications is 30th September and organisations need to be able to deliver the key activities outlined in their application by 28th April 2023. Successful applicants will be announced on Monday 17th October and a celebration event outlining the impact of the Community Fund on each of the chosen projects will be held on 19th May, 2023.

SLN Community Fund Manager, Debra Vice-Holt commented: “We are constantly inspired by the huge diversity of projects that exist across our region to support underrepresented learners. Their work is invaluable as many thousands of young people across Sussex face significant barriers getting into higher education.

“Our hope is that our new Community Fund will not only help support and grow some fantastic initiatives but will throw a spotlight on the great work being done across the region and the very real need for it. We also hope that it might inspire many more innovative initiatives in the future.”

All organisations wishing to submit an application are encouraged to speak to email our Community Fund Manager, Debra before submitting an application.