Support for 280 grassroots charities nationwide
- Now in its third year, the landmark match funding campaign aims to raise thousands for 280 UK arts and culture charities.
- Running from 17th March to 24th March, public donations made via Big Give will be doubled by a range of generous match funding partners.
Big Give, the UK’s leading match-funding platform, today launches the 2026 edition of its annual Arts for Impact campaign, in partnership with Figurative Philanthropy for Arts and Culture (FPAC).
Now in its third year, the week-long campaign has become a vital fixture in the arts calendar and will support 280 grassroots arts and culture charities across the UK, helping them raise essential funds at a time of mounting financial pressure.
Arts organisations continue to face rising operational costs, increasing demand for services and sustained pressure on income from donations and grants. For many grassroots charities, campaigns like Arts for Impact are not simply fundraising opportunities; they are critical moments to galvanise public support and secure their future.
From midday 17 March to midday 24 March, every public donation made via Big Give’s platform will be doubled pound-for-pound by a group of major philanthropic ‘Champions’, unlocking vital funding for charities working across music, theatre, dance, museums, galleries and literature.
This year’s match funding has been provided by an exceptional coalition of philanthropists, companies and foundations, including The Reed Foundation, AKO Foundation, and with public funding support from Arts Council England, among others.
This year, the initiative will help 280 participating charities that use creativity to address societal challenges, from supporting mental health and tackling isolation, to providing free creative education for disadvantaged young people.
Regional Impact: A Nationwide Movement
The 2026 campaign involves charities from across the country, ensuring the benefits of the arts are felt in communities nationwide. According to recent data, the campaign supports a diverse range of organisations across the UK:
| Region | Participating Charities |
| East of England | 17 |
| East Midlands | 5 |
| Greater London | 64 |
| North East | 4 |
| North West | 17 |
| Northern Ireland | 3 |
| Scotland | 5 |
| South East | 45 |
| South West | 27 |
| Wales | 7 |
| West Midlands | 13 |
| Yorkshire & The Humber | 13 |
| Nationwide | 66 |
Note: Data represents a snapshot of the 2026 campaign’s regional engagement.
James Reed CBE, Chair of Trustees for Big Give, said:
“Arts charities across the UK deliver real social impact, building connection and purpose through creativity. For many of these grassroots organisations, the funds raised during this campaign make the difference between continuing their vital work or facing difficult reductions in service. Every pound donated can be doubled, making it the perfect way for the public to multiply their generosity.”
Tonya Nelson, Executive Director, Enterprise and Innovation, Arts Council England, said:
“We are pleased to match fund these inspiring Arts for Impact campaigns. Philanthropy plays a vital role in funding culture in the UK, helping creative and cultural organisations reach more people in more places. We hope the additional funds raised will support organisations’ social impact work and help them develop new skills for the future.”
Sir Vernon Ellis, FPAC Founder and Trustee of Figurative, added:
“The arts are fundamental to the wellbeing of individuals and communities. At a time when financial pressures are significant, initiatives like Arts for Impact provide a vital lifeline, ensuring these organisations can continue their invaluable work for years to come.”
Voices from the Frontline
The campaign’s impact is best reflected in the charities it supports. Following the 2025 campaign, participating organisations reported not only increased income, but also strengthened fundraising capability and public visibility.
Refreshing Minds
“The main impact…will be the ability to provide over 300 disadvantaged girls with the opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills, and express their creativity in a safe and supportive environment.
Funds raised will support skill development through workshops in acting, dance, and technical production, offering participants a chance to enhance their future opportunities.
Additionally, funds will aid in supporting the development of 32 active volunteers by providing them with training and resources to strengthen their leadership.”