Big Give, the UK’s leading match-funding platform, has launched the 2026 edition of its annual Arts for Impact campaign, in partnership with Figurative Philanthropy for Arts and Culture (FPAC).
Now in its third year, the week-long campaign has become a vital fixture in the arts calendar and will support 280 grassroots arts and culture charities across the UK, helping them raise essential funds.
Arts organisations continue to face rising operational costs, increasing demand for services and sustained pressure on income from donations and grants. For many grassroots charities, campaigns like Arts for Impact are not simply fundraising opportunities; they are critical moments to galvanise public support and secure their future.
From midday 17 March to midday 24 March, every public donation made via Big Give’s platform will be doubled pound-for-pound by a group of major philanthropic ‘Champions’, unlocking vital funding for charities working across music, theatre and dance companies, museums, galleries and literature charities.
This year’s match funding has been provided by an exceptional coalition of philanthropists, companies and foundations, including The Reed Foundation, AKO Foundation, and with public funding support from Arts Council England, among others.
This year, the initiative will help 280 participating charities that use creativity to address societal challenges, from supporting mental health and tackling isolation, to providing free creative education for disadvantaged young people.
Regional Impact: A Nationwide Movement
The 2026 campaign involves charities from across the country, ensuring the benefits of the arts are felt in communities nationwide. According to recent data, the campaign supports a diverse range of organisations across the UK:
| Region | Participating Charities |
| East of England | 17 |
| East Midlands | 5 |
| Greater London | 64 |
| North East | 4 |
| North West | 17 |
| Northern Ireland | 3 |
| Scotland | 5 |
| South East | 45 |
| South West | 27 |
| Wales | 7 |
| West Midlands | 13 |
| Yorkshire & The Humber | 13 |
| Nationwide | 66 |
Note: Data represents a snapshot of the 2026 campaign’s regional engagement.
James Reed CBE, Chair of Trustees for Big Give, said:
“Arts charities across the UK deliver real social impact, building connection and purpose through creativity. For many of these grassroots organisations, the funds raised during this campaign make the difference between continuing their vital work or facing difficult reductions in service. Every pound donated can be doubled, making it the perfect way for the public to multiply their generosity.”
Tonya Nelson, Executive Director, Enterprise and Innovation, Arts Council England, said:
“We are pleased to match fund these inspiring Arts for Impact campaigns. Philanthropy plays a vital role in funding culture in the UK, helping creative and cultural organisations reach more people in more places. We hope the additional funds raised will support organisations’ social impact work and help them develop new skills for the future.”
Sir Vernon Ellis, FPAC Founder and Trustee of Figurative, added:
“The arts are fundamental to the wellbeing of individuals and communities. At a time when financial pressures are significant, initiatives like Arts for Impact provide a vital lifeline, ensuring these organisations can continue their invaluable work for years to come.”
Voices from the Frontline
The campaign’s impact is best reflected in the charities it supports. Following the 2025 campaign, participating organisations reported not only increased income, but also strengthened fundraising capability and public visibility.
- Intermission Youth exceeded its fundraising target and described the campaign as “a valuable learning opportunity” for its fundraising team.
- The Art Station reported increased wellbeing outcomes alongside a strengthened public profile.
- Sadler’s Wells Theatre continues to expand access to dance through its ‘The Floor is Yours’ project, ensuring dance is accessible to everyone.
- Electric Umbrella provides life-changing musical experiences for people with learning disabilities, supported by funds raised through the campaign.
To learn more about the charities involved and have your donation doubled, visit: donate.biggive.org/arts-for-impact-2026
