CHK Foundation

CHK Foundation is a UK-based charitable organisation registered under charity number 1050900. Established as a family foundation, it primarily consists of trustees who are descendants of its founder, Sir Cyril Kleinwort. The foundation operates with broad charitable objectives, dynamically adjusting its grant-making focus to align with the current interests of its trustees and relevant social challenges.

Objectives and Focus

The foundation’s charitable efforts have evolved through different strategic focuses over the years. Between 2019 and 2024, CHK Foundation concentrated on supporting 25 to 30 charities annually across the UK that focus on improving the lives and prospects of young people aged 11 to 24 who are considered at risk due to factors such as leaving the care system, involvement in the criminal justice system, or substance misuse.

From 2024 to 2028, the foundation’s grant programme has a dual focus on education and environmental protection. A significant theme during this period is sustainable agriculture, with support directed towards initiatives promoting better stewardship of natural resources—air, water, and soil—while minimising reliance on external inputs. The foundation aims to balance environmental quality, economic viability, and the social equity of farming systems and food production. Trustees involved in this phase bring practical experience from traditional, mixed, and organic farming systems.

Governance and Structure

CHK Foundation is managed by a board of trustees primarily comprising family members of its founder. The governance structure is designed to ensure that the foundation remains responsive to emergent societal needs while adhering to its broad philanthropic mandate. The foundation is structured as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital.

Financial Overview

As of the financial year ending December 31, 2023, CHK Foundation reported a total income of approximately £3.29 million primarily from investment returns. Its total expenditure for the year was about £3.62 million, including £3.12 million directed towards charitable activities and nearly £0.5 million on raising funds. The foundation balances spending on current beneficiaries with resource retention for future initiatives, reflecting a strategic approach to sustainability.

Activities and Impact

CHK Foundation systematically supports a portfolio of charities throughout the UK, focusing on targeted interventions that address pressing social and environmental issues. Its multi-year grants have facilitated programs for vulnerable youth and environmental sustainability projects, including innovative approaches in sustainable agriculture.

The foundation’s commitment to rotating its focus areas allows it to address diverse challenges over time, adapting its strategy according to trustee expertise and societal priorities.

External Affiliations

CHK Foundation is noted as a sponsor for the Nuffield Farming Scholarships, reflecting its engagement with educational initiatives promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

This article is based on data sourced from the UK Charity Commission and other public records as of 2024.

[1] https://www.nuffieldscholar.org/sponsors/our-sponsors/chk-foundation [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regId=1050900&subId=0 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1050900 [4] https://www.getgrants.org.uk/chk-charities/ [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/03130170