Graham Educational Fund (formerly The Graham Charitable Society Glasgow)

About this fund

The Graham Charitable Society was established by Charter from the City of Glasgow in 1759 with the original aim of "distribution to persons of the name of Graham or descendants of persons of that name such sums as they shall just requisite and to put poor boys of the name of the descendants of such persons of the name, to schools and trades in order to enable them to gain a livelihood and to be useful members of society." 

Over the years, the Trustees recognised that the needs had changed, and the best way to manage its charitable work had changed. They wanted to ensure that the Society’s legacy would continue to be carefully managed, while removing the administrative burden of running a separate charity. Furthermore, charitable law has changed and Trustees recognised the opportunity to widen their impact at the same time.  The decision was therefore made to wind up the Society and transfer its funds to Foundation Scotland.

The fund will continue its work under a new name — The Graham Educational Fund — ensuring that the Society’s long tradition of support and lineage can continue, but now in a wider and more sustainable way. The Graham Educational Fund’s priority will continue to be access to education in Glasgow, and it will no doubt be a source of valuable help to many students in the years to come – beyond those with the name of Graham.  

Read more about the Graham Educational Fund here.

Purpose of this fund

The Graham Educational Fund provides one-year bursary support to individuals experiencing financial hardship that prevents access to or continuation of higher education, training, or apprenticeships with a college, university, or training provider in Glasgow. Bursaries can contribute towards living costs, travel costs, and the cost of books and other study or training equipment. 

The Graham Educational Fund has up to £10,000 to distribute. If demand for this programme exceeds available funds, it may close early once capacity has been reached. Applications are therefore encouraged to be submitted as early as possible.

Who can apply?

Individuals experiencing financial hardship which prevents them from accessing or progressing into further or higher education, training, or an apprenticeship with a college, university, or training provider in Glasgow.

What can’t be funded?

Individuals who are not experiencing financial hardship, and individuals who are not studying or training, or planning to study or train, with a college, university, or training provider in Glasgow.

How are decisions made?

Final recommendations are made by the Fund Adviser at Foundation Scotland, based on an assessment of eligibility and best alignment with the Fund’s purpose. These are then approved by the Fund’s advisory group.