The Baring Foundation’s Strengthening Civil Society (SCS) programme is offering grants of up to £150,000 over three years to support civil society organisations using legal tools to hold corporations to account for harms caused to migrant communities. The application deadline is 7 September 2026.
About the Baring Foundation
The Baring Foundation is a UK grant-making charity that has supported civil society for over a decade, with a focus on using the law to address corporate harm and disadvantage. This programme funds organisations that use legal action and human rights-based approaches to create systemic social change.
What the Fund Supports
This call focuses on migration — specifically civil society work that uses legal tools to challenge corporate activities harming migrant communities in the UK. Eligible activities include:
- Legal research gathering evidence on how companies surveil migrant communities
- Bringing legal challenges against companies acting unlawfully in delivering services to migrants
- Supporting non-legal CSOs to utilise regulators to further campaign goals
- Monitoring implementation of wins already achieved through legal action
How Much Funding Is Available
Two funding levels are available: up to £150,000 over three years for established work, or up to £50,000 over 18 months for exploratory-phase projects. Approximately 6–7 grants will be made in total through this first open call.
Who Is Eligible
UK-registered not-for-profit organisations (preferably charities) with a demonstrable history of using legal tools to address discrimination. Key eligibility requirements:
- Either a civil society organisation focused on corporate accountability, or a migrants’ rights organisation with interest in holding corporations to account
- At least one full year’s accounts and annual income under £2 million
- Work delivering benefit in the UK only (no international work considered)
- Collaborative working is strongly encouraged
How to Apply
A one-stage application submitted via the Baring Foundation’s online portal, including a grant application form (up to 2,000 words), accounts, budget, and safeguarding policy.
- Deadline for Enquiries: 19 August 2026
- Application Deadline: 7 September 2026 at 11:00 AM
- Board Decisions: December 2026
- All Applicants Notified: 16 December 2026
