BIG Give’s second annual Arts for Impact campaign has successfully concluded, raising an impressive £2.7 million to support 286 arts charities making a transformational difference in their communities.
The campaign, which ran from 18th to 25th March 2025, demonstrated the public’s generosity, receiving over 13,500 donations, with donations matched to double their impact for participating organisations.
The campaign was run by Big Give, the UK’s leading match-funding charity, in partnership with Figurative Philanthropy for Arts & Culture (FPAC, formerly New Philanthropy for Arts & Culture). With £1.2 million in match funding secured from a range of philanthropic donors, the campaign successfully empowered donors to contribute meaningfully to arts organisations, delivering positive change across the UK.
Whether it’s a museum preserving history, a festival celebrating young voices, or a choir supporting mental health for the elderly, these arts and culture organisations rely on donations to keep making an impact. With arts charities making up 15% of the UK’s registered charities, the funds raised will make a material difference in allowing these fantastic organisations to continue their vital work. Supporters were able to filter and find charities working across the UK, like Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre, Chew Valley Performing Arts, Dundee Contemporary Arts, and many more.
James Reed CBE, Chair of the Trustees of Big Give and CEO of REED, said:
“We’re delighted to have helped the 286 really worthwhile charities raise such well-needed funds thanks to the generosity of the public and our champion donors. As always, it is so pleasing to see the power of our platform, which doubles the difference of every donation.”
Sir Vernon Ellis, Chair of FPAC and member of the Figurative Board, added:
“The response to this year’s Arts for Impact campaign has been phenomenal. The arts are a vital force for good, providing comfort, inspiration, and opportunities for connection across communities. We are thrilled to see so many people rally behind these essential causes.”
Jordan, a young participant from The Music Works’ Creative Careers Programme, shared:
“The Music Works really builds your confidence… it challenges you in a safe environment and facilitates growth.”
The Music Works, which raised £43,950, is just one of many charities benefitting from the support raised during the campaign. They help to create safe spaces and use music to build confidence, improve mental well-being and develop essential skills for brighter futures.
Chichester Festival Youth Theatre (CFYT) is a special place where young people create, learn, make friends, develop skills, and have fun. As part of the campaign, they raised £30,045.
A parent of a CFYT member attending with a bursary shared:
“The sessions have been absolutely brilliant for my home-schooled and very shy daughter. They have literally transformed her week. She thoroughly enjoys them, has learned a lot, has made new friends and feels safe and happy to come along each week. We couldn’t ask for more. Thank you.”
Hear and Now, by Philharmonia Ltd, is an intergenerational community project that brings together those affected by dementia, their carers, and young people to share stories and collaborate creatively. The charity raised £22,729.
A programme participant said:
“I’ve been coming to Hear and Now for years. I find it a challenge, and it makes you use your brain more and enjoy learning new things.”
Explore these charities and more via the campaign website: donate.biggive.org/artsforimpact25.
