Supporting BAME non-profits is more than an act of goodwill—it’s a responsibility for funders and local authorities who claim to serve all communities fairly. Despite delivering critical, culturally relevant services, BAME-led organisations remain systemically underfunded and under-supported.
This blog outlines what councils and funders must do to ensure support for BAME non-profits goes beyond rhetoric and results in lasting structural change.
The Current Reality
BAME-led non-profits in the UK face an uphill battle. At Beyond Growth, our survey of over 50 BAME-led organisations revealed:
- 85% struggle to secure consistent funding
- 70% lack access to training and development
- 60% report low visibility in the wider charity sector
- 50% need governance and compliance support
And yet, these same organisations provide essential services—from mental health care and housing support to youth mentoring and employment pathways.
Despite their impact, data from the Charity Commission shows only 5–7% of charity funding goes to BAME-led organisations.
Why Local Authorities and Funders Must Act
Local councils and funding bodies hold significant power. Their decisions shape who thrives in the non-profit sector—and who is left behind. Without intentional action, the systemic funding gap and power imbalance will continue to marginalise BAME-led organisations and the communities they serve.
Five Ways to Start Supporting BAME Non-Profits More Effectively
1. Adopt Equity-Based Funding Frameworks
Instead of “equal opportunity” funding rounds, councils should allocate funding proportionally to communities most affected by structural inequalities. This ensures those historically excluded from resources are finally prioritised.
Action: Ringfence a portion of funding specifically for BAME-led organisations and grassroots groups.
2. Simplify the Application Process
Many small organisations don’t have in-house bid writers or the admin capacity to complete lengthy applications. Funders must make processes clearer, shorter, and more accessible.
Action: Provide sample applications, extend deadlines, and allow oral or video submissions where possible.
3. Invest in Capacity Building, Not Just Programmes
Too often, funding is restricted to project delivery—leaving organisations without core infrastructure. But for a BAME-led non-profit to scale, it must first stabilise.
Action: Fund leadership training, governance support, and back-office functions like finance and HR. Explore our support services here.
4. Ensure BAME Representation in Decision-Making
If funding panels and council advisory boards aren’t diverse, decisions will reflect dominant perspectives and priorities—not community needs.
Action: Recruit more BAME leaders to funding and policy roles, and ensure they have real influence.
5. Build Long-Term Relationships, Not One-Off Grants
Transactional funding keeps organisations in survival mode. True support comes from multi-year, trust-based funding models that enable sustainable planning.
Action: Pilot longer-term grants and offer feedback sessions to build mutual trust.
How Supporting BAME Non-Profits Benefits Everyone
This isn’t charity—it’s smart investment. When BAME-led organisations are supported properly, they:
- Reduce pressure on public services
- Improve community wellbeing
- Drive local economic participation
- Innovate faster due to lived-experience leadership
And most importantly—they bring marginalised communities into the heart of social change.
For funders looking to lead with impact, check out the Global Majority Fund by Comic Relief—a model of equity-first funding in action.
Conclusion
Supporting BAME non-profits requires more than ticking boxes or publishing solidarity statements. It demands practical steps that shift resources, decision-making power, and infrastructure into the hands of those best placed to deliver meaningful change.
If you’re a council officer, funder, or policymaker ready to back impactful work, start with these five steps. And if you’re a BAME-led organisation ready for tailored support, contact Beyond Growth—we’re here to help you build, grow, and lead.