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20 Essex Community Foundation Annual Review 2025Our grantmaking 2024-25Within the total amount awarded %u00a3437,221 was awarded to organisations working across two or more districts. In addition, %u00a3161,553 was awarded to organisations working outside the county.Facts and figures%u2022 The success rate for applicants applying to us for funding 47%%u2022 Number of first-time applicants 357%u2022 First time applicant success rate 31%%u2022 The average grant size %u00a35,748%u2022 33% of organisations we funded have an annual income of under %u00a3100,000%u2022 39% of our funding supported core running costs including rent, salaries and utilities%u2022 On average we receive 94 requests for funding each month%u2022 Our grants team delivered 1:1 advice and guidance sessions to 230 potential applicantsCastle Point%u00a356,505Braintree%u00a3223,852Uttlesford%u00a3156,220Harlow%u00a3180,600Epping Forest%u00a353,894Brentwood%u00a398,380Thurrock%u00a365,242Basildon%u00a3218,758Chelmsford %u00a3771,921Our year in numbers%u2022 %u00a33.8 million in grants paid to 549 voluntary organisations and 167 individuals%u2022 164 grants given for core or running cost support helping groups stay open and responsive%u2022 Over %u00a3500,000 invested in community spaces, transport, and equipment%u2022 50 grants supported long-term projects through multi-year funding%u2022 9% rise in applications, showing strong demand and sector resilienceGrants ranged from under %u00a31,000 to more than %u00a3400,000. This included a major capital award to CHESS Homeless to build 24 modular homes for people experiencing homelessness, read more on page 9. A powerful example of how philanthropy can unlock lasting, local change.