Lead the Change Fund

The Lead for Change Fund is an AoC Charitable Trust Project that aims to provide students from colleges that were commended, finalist or winners of a Beacon Award in 2025/26 with the opportunity to turn their visions for change into action. Through the fund, students will have the opportunity to apply for up to £1,500 of funding to make a positive change within their college or community.

Fund aims:

1. Empower students to take action
2. Develop student skills in leadership, project management and change-making
3. Provide opportunities for like-minded students to connect through shared visions
4. Provide opportunities for students to network and gain potential work experience opportunities
5. Celebrate student success

The student-led projects will link to one of nine, Beacon Award Categories:

Applications for the Lead the Change Fund 2025/25 are open!

Are you a shortlisted college for a Beacon Award category in 2025/26?

If yes, students from your college can apply for £500-£1,500 of funding through the Lead the Change Fund. Students and supporting staff will need to complete an application form and submit it to projects@aoc.co.uk by 12pm on 20 April 2026.

Please see the application guidance and application form below.

If you have any questions regarding this opportunity, please contact projects@aoc.co.uk.

We look forward to receiving your application.