'Turn The Tide' Announced as Focus for Thematic Funding 2025
‘Turn the Tide’ has been announced as the theme for Manx Lottery Trust’s 2025 Thematic Funding and applications are now open.
The Trustees of Manx Lottery Trust, as the delegated partner of The National Lottery Community Fund, are inviting applications from local charities, not-for-profits, and community organisations managing new or existing projects aimed at empowering early shifts towards brighter futures.
This year’s thematic funding will focus on projects that reverse a situation which needs addressing and create lasting, positive change, while considering process, impact, and outcomes.
Projects should focus on:
- Intervening early to prevent challenges from escalating
- Unlocking opportunities at key life stages
- Fostering resilience, inclusion, health, and wellbeing
- Making proactive, positive differences in people’s lives
Examples of eligible projects could include early-stage mentoring and skills programmes, preventative health and wellbeing initiatives, resilience-building workshops, or community-led support schemes helping people through transitional life stages.
Sarah Kelly, Chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, said the new theme reflects the Trust’s belief in early action as the foundation for long-term community wellbeing.
She said: ‘We believe in the power of early action, catching opportunities before they are lost, tackling problems before they grow, and building strong foundations for people and communities.
‘That’s why we are thrilled to launch ‘Turn the Tide’, a funding opportunity for community groups, charities, and not-for-profit organisations who intervene early, unlock opportunities, and make a proactive difference in people’s lives. If you are creating brighter futures, we want to hear from you.”
To be considered for a Thematic Funding Award, applications must be submitted by Friday 2nd January 2026. Grants will be available between £2,501 and £25,000, with projects running over 12 months. A total of £150,000 is available for distribution.
More information on the criteria and application process can be found on the Manx Lottery Trust website at: www.mlt.org.im

