Funding Local Causes

Transforming people's generosity into stronger local communities

Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) is an independent charity that aims to encourage local philanthropy, the giving of time, resources or both by local people to help support their local communities.
Hertfordshire is a county of contrasts. It is often perceived to be a prosperous county with a vibrant local economy. However, if you dig a little deeper you will find pockets of disadvantage in every district. We seek to address this deprivation by bringing together local people who care with local causes that matter. We help find funding for local charitable and voluntary groups that do not attract mass public support.

The strength of our communities affects all aspects of our life from our health and wellbeing to our local economy and environment. We believe that communities are powerful sources of friendship, support and a sense of belonging. Our endeavour is to foster a strong sense of community and joint responsibility to create sustainable ways to solve local issues through local investment.

Since inception in 1988, we have awarded over £20 million in support to local communities. HCF currently manages over 100 funds on behalf of individuals, families, companies and other organisations. During 2022/23 we awarded over £5million in direct grant aid to charitable projects working to help the most vulnerable residents of Hertfordshire.

We provide:
  • philanthropy advice and giving options for individuals, families, businesses and charities
  • funding and other support for groups and individuals
  • leadership on vital issues in our communities


    Brief History:

    We are one of 47 community foundations in the UK, and over 1,800 similar foundations around the world. Community foundations collaborate with private philanthropists, family trusts, businesses and the public sector to provide a permanent, flexible and growing source of local charitable funding.

    For the past 30 years, Hertfordshire Community Foundation has offered a professional, flexible service to assist donors, whether individuals, companies or trusts as well as public authorities and agencies, to achieve their charitable giving objectives, whatever the area of interest or level of giving.
  • Catch up with our latest news

    Community Safety Fund: Grants to make Hertfordshire a safer place to live.
    We are delighted to work in partnership with the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Hertfordshire to provide grants of up to £6,000 to support initiatives that help reduce crime and create safer communities across the county. .
    Christmas Tree Sales Raise Over £2,900 for Hertfordshire Winter Appeal
    We are delighted to announce that we have received an incredibly generous donation of £2,903. 68, thanks to the organisers behind the recent charity Christmas tree sale at Sacombe Green.
    Winter Appeal to support vulnerable residents
    As temperatures begin to drop, Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) has launched its annual Winter Appeal to provide critical support to the county's most vulnerable residents. .
    Our latest Annual Review : A year of impact
    We’re excited to share our latest Annual Review, showcasing the incredible work made possible by our generous supporters. .