The Rowing Foundation

The Rowing Foundation is a registered charity in the United Kingdom established in 1980 with the primary aim of encouraging young people to participate in water sports, particularly rowing. The foundation focuses on supporting junior and student rowers, as well as promoting adaptive rowing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.

Mission and Objectives

The charity’s mission is to "get young people on the water" by providing grants that assist rowing clubs, schools, and other organizations in acquiring or refurbishing boat equipment needed for rowing activities. The foundation is committed to helping those in full-time education, juniors, and individuals with disabilities to enjoy and benefit from rowing.

Grant Programmes

The Rowing Foundation offers financial support primarily through two types of grants:

• Equipment Grants: These grants contribute up to 50% of the costs for purchasing rowing-related equipment such as boats and blades. Grants can be up to £4,000 within any three-year period, supporting clubs and organizations in their efforts to expand junior and student rowing programmes.

• Boat Refurbishment Grants: These grants also cover up to 50% of the cost for refurbishing boats, including hull and tops services, specifically for boats used by junior rowers. Applications for refurbishment grants can be submitted at any time.

The foundation is particularly interested in supporting adaptive rowing initiatives that enable people with disabilities to engage in rowing activities, reflecting an inclusive approach to participation.

Beneficiaries

While the majority of grants go to UK rowing clubs affiliated with UK Rowing, The Rowing Foundation has a broader scope that includes clubs and organizations involved in "on-water rowing-type" activities. Recent recipients have included gig rowing clubs and even Scout groups that promote rowing among young people.

Application Process

Grant applications for equipment are reviewed three times a year, with specific deadlines such as the upcoming deadline on 17 March 2025 for the 2025 grant cycle. Refurbishment grant applications are considered on a rolling basis, allowing continual support for boat maintenance and refurbishment projects.

Impact and Legacy

With over 40 years of experience, The Rowing Foundation has played a significant role in facilitating youth participation in rowing throughout the UK. By financially supporting the acquisition and maintenance of equipment, the charity helps clubs expand access to rowing, nurture young talent, and promote inclusivity in the sport.

Charity Number: 281688

The Rowing Foundation continues to uphold its commitment to making rowing accessible to young people and those with disabilities, fostering a love for water sports and supporting the development of rowing at the grassroots level across the United Kingdom.

[1] https://therowingfoundation.org.uk/about/ [2] https://therowingfoundation.org.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/281688 [4] https://www.active-together.org/fundingfinder/1636 [5] https://supportingcommunities.org/funding-news-1/2025/2/4/rowing-foundation-accepting-grant-applications-for-2025-projects