EDWARD STEPHEN HARKNESS of New York founded the Pilgrim Trust in 1930 by endowing it with a capital sum of just over two million pounds. The donor, as stated in the preamble to the Trust Deed, was prompted by his admiration for what Great Britain had done in the 1914-18 war, and by his ties of affection for the land from which he drew his descent. He desired that the gift should be used to give grants for some of the country's more urgent needs and in promoting her future well-being.

Today, the Trustees produce guidelines for applicants, which are reviewed every three years, outlining their current policies for grant-giving. The guidelines can be downloaded from this Web site.  On average, the Trustees commit in the region of £1.5 million each year in grants.

If you wish to make an application to the Pilgrim Trust please read the guidelines carefully to make sure that your organisation and your project are eligible.

The full guidelines for applicants can be downloaded here.