2026 Weston Charity Awards now open

Ambitious charities across Wales, the North of England, and the Midlands are invited to apply for the 2026 Weston Charity Awards, which offer transformational support packages worth over £22,000 each. Winners have the chance to access a package of strategic mentorship worth £16,000, plus £6,500 of unrestricted funding.

Up to 22 charities working in community, environment, welfare, or youth sectors will be selected for this substantial programme of support, designed to help organisations strengthen their leadership, plan for sustainable growth, and build long-term resilience.


Delivered through a partnership between the Garfield Weston Foundation and charity partner Pilotlight, each winner receives £6,500 in unrestricted funding, plus access to Pilotlight 360 – a year-long programme of strategic mentoring and leadership development valued at around £16,000.

Each front-line charity is matched with a team of senior business professionals, known as Pilotlighters, who provide tailored coaching on topics such as income diversification, business planning, long-term strategy, volunteer recruitment, and operational efficiency. This expert guidance helps small charities gain the skills and capacity to thrive in an increasingly challenging environment.

The Weston Charity Awards application deadline is 5pm on Friday 9 January 2026.  

Who can apply?

·       Registered charities (charity number required)

·       Income under £5 million per year

·       At least two years of service delivery

·       At least one full-time paid leader

·       Based in the North of England, the Midlands or Wales

·       Working in Community, Welfare, Youth or Environmental action

To find out more and apply, visit: www.pilotlight.org.uk/weston-charity-awards

Charities can also attend a free Zoom session where they can find out more about the benefits and get top tips on crafting a standout application. 

All sessions take place online via Zoom from 1-2pm:

10 November (with Interlink and Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil)

4 December

16 December 

Tickets are available through Eventbrite.