FAQ'S

The Trafford Centre Foundation is a new independent charitable initiative designed to deliver long-term social value within its communities across Greater Manchester and the North West.

The Trafford Centre Foundation represents the realisation of another pillar of the centre’s award-winning ESG strategy, For Our Future, a core objective of which has always been to support community projects and social value. It is an opportunity to lead, not just within the UK but at an international level, by showing how retail destinations can move beyond traditional charitable activity and deliver social value in a more accountable and strategic way.

Yes. The Trafford Centre Foundation operates as a registered charity (registered charity number 1216861), independent to Trafford Centre, and follows all relevant governance and compliance requirements.

The Foundation operates independently and is overseen by a Board of Trustees who guide funding decisions and ensure strong governance. The Board of Trustees is chaired by Shaquille White, whose professional background in financial crime, governance and controls is complemented by a deeply personal commitment to community impact.

Focused on grassroots initiatives, funding will be directed towards projects that address clear local needs. The Foundation focuses on projects that tackle deprivation, improve health and wellbeing, and promote equality, diversity and inclusion. This includes after-school programmes, holiday hunger support, community mental health initiatives, local skills and employability projects, accessible sports and arts programmes, and neighbourhood greening or repair projects, all aimed at helping young people, tackling disadvantage and strengthening communities.

To be eligible for funding, organisations must meet the following criteria:

• Applications must support projects based in the North West of England, or come from organisations with a local North West office. Priority may be given to projects in Trafford or Greater Manchester.
• Applicants must be registered charities or recognised community groups. Hospices must be recognised by their local health authority.
• Projects must align with one of the Foundation’s key themes:
  o Education support for young people and people facing disadvantage
  o Citizen and community development
  o Environmental protection and enhancement
• Applications must be submitted directly by the charity or community organisation involved, not by third parties or individuals.
• All funding requests must be submitted through the official application process. 
• Requests for advertising or publication sponsorship will not be considered.

Funding may support equipment, community programmes, outreach initiatives and specialist services. The Foundation does not typically fund general operating costs, advertising or core staffing.

The Foundation plans to offer two grant funding rounds each year. Funding is typically awarded for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years.

Applications are made via www.traffordcentrefoundation.co.uk

Applications are reviewed by independent trustees and assessed on factors including community benefit, measurable impact and alignment with the Foundation’s funding priorities.

Application timelines, including deadlines and award dates, will be published alongside each funding round.

Yes. Previous applicants may be able to apply again, subject to the Foundation’s funding criteria and application guidelines.

Yes. The Foundation welcomes opportunities to work with businesses through sponsorships, fundraising and community initiatives.

The Foundation will monitor and report on the difference its funding makes through impact reporting, case studies and community outcomes. Reporting will occur annually with the first reports due 12 months after the first round of funding has been received.

The Trafford Centre Foundation website will feature funded projects, charity partnerships, success stories and annual impact updates.