One of the most underused fundraising strategies for UK teenagers is applying for grants and bursaries. Most young people don't know they exist — and those who do often assume they won't be eligible. But the truth is, there are dozens of UK organisations that exist specifically to fund young people going on expeditions, adventures, and overseas projects.

A single successful grant application could add hundreds of pounds to your total for just an hour or two of work. Here are 10 to start with.

1. The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust

The WCMT offers fellowships to UK citizens of any age to travel abroad and bring back knowledge to benefit their communities. While primarily aimed at adults, young people with a strong community purpose to their trip are encouraged to apply. Awards typically range from £2,000 to £5,000.

2. The Royal Geographical Society — Expedition Grants

The RGS offers a range of grants for expeditions with a genuine geographical or scientific purpose. Young people aged 16+ are eligible. Awards typically range from £500 to £2,000. The application process is competitive but the grants are well worth pursuing.

3. The British Exploring Society

British Exploring runs expeditions for young people aged 16–25 and offers bursaries to ensure cost is not a barrier. If your trip is through British Exploring, apply for a bursary as part of your application.

4. The Young Explorers' Trust

The YET supports young people aged 16–25 going on expeditions with an educational or scientific element. Grants of up to £500 are available. The application is straightforward and the trust is specifically set up to support young adventurers.

5. The Rotary Club

Your local Rotary Club may offer grants or donations to young people going on community or charity-focused trips. Contact your nearest club directly and explain your trip. Many Rotary clubs have discretionary funds specifically for young people in their local area.

6. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award — Expedition Grants

If your trip is connected to your DofE award, speak to your DofE coordinator about available funding. There are several organisations that specifically fund DofE-related expeditions.

7. The Scouts — Queen's Scout Award Grants

Scouts working towards their Queen's Scout Award may be eligible for grants from the Scout Association and affiliated organisations. Speak to your District Commissioner about what's available in your area.

8. Local Charitable Trusts

Almost every county in the UK has local charitable trusts that give grants to young people for educational travel and adventure. Search "[your county] charitable trust young people grants" to find what's available in your area. These are often undersubscribed because not enough young people know they exist.

9. The Lionheart Foundation

The Lionheart Foundation supports young people going on gap year projects and overseas volunteering. Grants of up to £500 are available for projects with a clear community benefit.

10. Your School or College

Many schools and colleges have discretionary funds or bursaries for pupils going on educational trips. Speak to your head of year, pastoral lead, or school bursar. You may be surprised what's available — especially if you're on free school meals or from a lower-income household.

"I applied for three grants and got one — £500 straight away. I never would have known it existed without Ways2Raise." — Jess, 17, raised £5,700 for Nepal

💡 Grant Application Tips

Always personalise your application. Explain specifically why you want to go on this trip, what you'll learn, and how it will benefit you and your community. Generic applications rarely succeed. Specific, passionate ones often do.

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