Unity Trust Bank doubles grant programme size as it returns for a third year
2nd September 2026
... Comments

The business bank has also introduced a new category this year specifically designed for green, sustainable initiatives that help the environment.

The grants are open to customers who have banked with Unity for over a year.

Joshua Meek, chief impact officer at Unity Trust Bank, said: “Supporting good causes through grant funding, fundraising, volunteering and charitable donations is an important part of who we are as a social impact bank.

“Having launched the impact grants programme three years ago to mark the bank’s 40th anniversary, it’s great that we’ve been able to double the amount of money available each year.

“This enables us to support even more organisations delivering meaningful change to people’s lives.

"The success of these grants, and their continued growth, reflects the incredible work of our socially-minded customers who share our commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities.

“That’s why I’m delighted that we have launched a new category this year with a specific focus on the environment.”

The new Unity Environmental Impact Grants category will provide four grants of £10,000. The money can be used to support activities that deliver positive environmental change and improve environmental sustainability.

The Unity Social Impact Grants category will provide £5,000 grants to 12 customers to help them continue making positive social, economic or community impact. The funding can be used for projects, operational costs or capital spend.

Last year’s recipients included Unity customers that support disadvantaged communities; people affected by domestic violence or trauma; mental health and wellbeing; adults facing barriers to education and employment and people with physical or learning disabilities.

One recipient, North Sea Conservation, received a grant to support its flagship Whitby Lobster Hatchery programme. The programme aims to replace depleted lobster stocks by rearing larvae until they’re two-month-old juveniles. This gives them a greater chance of survival when they’re released back into the sea.

Joe Redfern, general manager at North Sea Conservation, said: “Unity’s support came at a crucial time for the charity, strengthening our ability to protect and restore the health of the North Sea. The grant has helped us to release 5,000 lobsters this year.”

The Unity Impact Grant programme is part of the bank’s employee-led ‘Unity & Me’ pillar which empowers staff to deliver positive outcomes for colleagues, communities and the planet.

In addition to the annual impact grants programme, 39 good causes have already benefitted from over £46,400 worth of grants and donations so far in 2026 with the aim of reaching £80,000 by the end of the year.

Visit the website for more information about Unity Trust Bank.

More
About the Author

Ian Henery

Member since: 4th February 2019

Trustee - Communitities Against Racism Enterprise (CARE)
Principal Solicitor - Riley Hayes & Co Solicitors

Popular Categories