£1.5 million available to local philanthropists

Merseyside Grassroots Endowment Challenge provides the opportunity for existing and new private Community Foundation donors to increase the value of new endowment donations. In its simplest form, a free contribution of £1 is available for every £2 donated by private donors for local causes.

Until March 2011 the Community Foundation is offering the opportunity for companies, individuals and trusts to set up charitable endowment funds - donations invested long-term - to distribute grants from the capital gained to local community projects to meet local need and their interests as donors. Funds can be set up from £1,000 to £725,000 over a three year period. The Challenge aims to benefit the boroughs of Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, St Helen's, Sefton and Wirral.

We are seeking private donors who have a commitment to and passion for Merseyside to join us in developing and benefitting from the 'Merseyside Grassroots Endowment Challenge', supporting their philanthropic aims and future generations of local grassroots projects.

We aim for the Challenge to especially build a legacy to the success of Liverpool Capital of Culture 2008 and the regeneration activities that are taking place across Merseyside.

For further information and to arrange a meeting to discuss opportunities, please contact Cathy Elliott, Assistant Chief Executive on 0151 966 3594 or at cathy.elliott@cfmerseyside.org.uk or Jack Miller, Partnerships & Philanthropy Manager on 0151 966 3856.

"Community Foundation for Merseyside helps communities to help themselves and helps donors to ensure that their funds are targeted in the right area, for the right cause and for maximum benefit." Cherie Booth QC, Patron of Community Foundation for Merseyside