November 21 – The Sky Bet EFL Building Foundations Fund has opened for applications from EFL Club charities, marking its second year of operation. The initiative, launched as part of a £6 million commitment by Sky Bet, seeks to improve community wellbeing through football and broader social initiatives across England and Wales.
In 2023/24, the fund distributed more than £800,000 to over 60 club charities, enabling the launch of more than 100 weekly sessions and engaging 7,500 new participants. Beneficiaries included Accrington Stanley Community Trust, which received the largest single grant of £100,000 to build a small-sided 3G pitch.
Popular programmes funded ranged from walking football and active ageing to homelessness support and veteran outreach.
The EFL’s latest impact report shows a 30% rise in community reach since 2021/22, now exceeding one million people. The initiative coincides with the EFL’s Week of Action, where clubs showcase their community contributions, such as Millwall manager Neil Harris hosting a coaching session for military veterans.
With £1 million available for the 2024/25 season, charities can apply for grants between £5,000 and £100,000, continuing the drive to tackle health inequalities and promote active lifestyles.
Debbie Cook, EFL’s Director of Community, said: “The Sky Bet EFL Building Foundations Fund helps the work of the Club charities by supporting existing or new initiatives across key areas such as physical and mental health, crime prevention, education and employability.
“EFL Clubs play a significant and integral role in their communities, often delivering vital support, interventions, and programmes across England and Wales. The scale and impact of the work is being demonstrated in our 72 towns and cities during EFL’s Week of Action,” she continued.
“Not only do over one million people positively benefit from engaging in Club activity every season, but for every £1 spent on community investment, £11 is generated in social value, highlighting the pivotal role our Clubs play in helping to tackle society’s key issues.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1735293037labto1735293037ofdlr1735293037owedi1735293037sni@g1735293037niwe.1735293037yrrah1735293037