SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY TODAY AND IN THE FUTURE
Rye Fund distributes its income as grants to non-profit community groups in Rye and the neighbouring parishes.
Individual applications can be for up to £2,000. We have distributed over £113,000 since the fund began in 2008.
The Fund is managed by Sussex Community Foundation. They also handle the applications for grants and ensure that they meet our charitable purpose. The application process is currently paused. We expect that applications will be able to be made again in September and the link to the application form will be here as soon as it is available. The final decisions on grants are made by our Local panel and this should take place in November 2025.
If you would like to know more or to just let us know you are interested then please contact us at info@ryefund.org.uk
Applications for this year must be made first in the form of an Expression of Interest being a short-form application here.
Early applications are encouraged because the formal last date for submitting an EOI is 17 October 2025 but may be closed earlier depending on the number of applications received.
Rye Fund was established in 2008 in conjunction with the Sussex Community Foundation an independent charity which manages funds and distributes grants on behalf of donors within Sussex. The Foundation hold and manage the funds donated, and provides administration of the grant-making process including monitoring of performance and investment management.
From an initial pledge of £20,000 subscribed by some local benefactors, and with generous donations from other residents and grants from government sources, the Rye Fund has grown to over £200,000, and distributes some £10,000 each year in grant awards to local groups and charitable organisations.
We have a panel drawn from members of the community who know the area and who are already involved in a local business or charitable organisation. In conjunction with the Foundation, the local panel makes the final selection of awards from the list of approved applications. The panel members also take an interest in encouraging other groups to come forward to apply for grants.
Rye Fund needs support in getting funds to support the communities in Rye and surrounding areas.