Building dreams and changing lives – how Manchester Airport’s Trust Fund is powering community groups

Manchester is a city built on community spirit, and nowhere is that clearer than in the work of Manchester Airport’s Community Trust Fund.

Since its launch in 1997, the fund has poured over £4 million into local initiatives, helping grassroots projects thrive.

This year is no different, with more than £38,000 pledged to 18 charities and non-profits across Greater Manchester and Cheshire.

Whether it’s funding for a BMX club in Stockport, safety gear for a triathlon group in Cheshire, or musical instruments for older adults in Sale, the Trust Fund is empowering local groups to dream bigger, aim higher, and reach wider.

Here’s a look at some of the inspiring stories behind the latest grants.

Turning the tide for Lymm Tri

In Cheshire, Lymm Tri has been awarded £1,245 to buy kayaks, paddles, buoyancy aids, and waterproof walkie-talkies—essential equipment for open-water swimming. The group began with a few women deciding to take on a triathlon challenge. Fast forward to today, and they’re a British Triathlon-affiliated club, helping members conquer their fears and embrace fitness.

“We started borrowing equipment, but this funding changes everything,” says Caroline Clarke, one of the group’s organizers. “It means we can train safely and grow our community. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come.”

Wythenshawe Youth Theatre shines brighter

In Wythenshawe, a youth theatre group is ready to raise the curtain on even more ambitious productions. Thanks to a £3,000 grant, they’ll invest in state-of-the-art electronic equipment, giving young performers hands-on experience in the arts.

“This funding is about opportunity,” says volunteer Ash McDowell. “It’s about giving young people the tools to create something extraordinary and inspiring the next generation of artists, producers, and creators in our community.”

BMX Dreams in Cheadle

The Bruntwood Park BMX Club in Cheadle is riding high after receiving £3,000 to purchase training gear and safety equipment. This boost comes in a year when British BMX riders, like Team GB’s Kieran Reilly, have put the sport on the map with Olympic success.

“We’re thrilled to receive this support,” says Sarah Woodward, the club’s secretary. “It means we can provide a safe and exciting experience for our riders and open our doors to more young people in the community.”

Connecting through music in Sale

For older adults in Sale, music is bringing people together and breaking the isolation barrier. String of Hearts, a local group that offers music-making sessions, home visits, and performances, received £2,718 to buy percussion instruments.

“This funding allows us to reach over 500 older adults each year,” says Co-Director Lucy Geddes. “The impact goes beyond music—it’s about reducing loneliness, fostering friendships, and improving well-being in our community.”

Building a stronger Manchester

The Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund is a lifeline for community projects that create lasting change. With up to £100,000 distributed annually, the fund enables groups within a 10-mile radius of the airport to apply for grants of up to £3,000.

For Caroline, Ash, Sarah, Lucy, and countless others, this support has been transformative. But more importantly, it’s helping build a stronger, more connected Manchester—one grant at a time.

Robert Pattison, Chair of Community Trust Fund said: “We take our role in supporting our neighbouring communities very seriously and we’re keen that they are able to share in the airport’s success, so the Community Trust Fund is a really important part of delivering that and we’re very proud to once again be supporting such a wide range of fantastic local causes.

 “If you’re part of a group or community project or know someone who is, and could potentially benefit from this funding, we’d love to hear from you ahead of our next meeting in January”

How to apply for the

Interested in applying for funding? You can find out more about Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund by clicking here