BFBS is proud to announce that 2026 grant applications for the BFBS Big Salute are now open, an annual initiative that offers vital project-based funding to under-resourced military charities.
Armed forces charities can apply for grants of up to £10,000, intended to fund purpose-driven projects that address the distinctive challenges faced by the military community in the UK and overseas.
This year, the BFBS Big Salute allocated £30,000 to six remarkable charities, who applied in 2025:
- BOWRA Foundation received £10,000 to provide up to 100 armed forces community members with Bowra bags, issued following a brain injury or stroke.
- Rural Veterans Hubs Kirklees were awarded £750 to support and integrate veterans back into the community.
- Elysium received £5,000 to help to erect a memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum dedicated to veterans who have lost their lives to suicide.
- Forward Assist were granted £7,500 to restore and relaunch the Salute Coffee Truck.
- Stepway were awarded £1,960 to purchase two workstations and a printer.
- Rees Foundation were granted £4,790 to support Care Leavers in the Armed Forces, plus promotional support from BFBS platforms.
Steve Doggett, Chief Executive Officer at Forward Assist said:
“Forward Assist is extremely grateful to the BFBS Big Salute Fund for this generous grant,” said Steve Doggett, CEO of Forward Assist. “This support will help us bring the Veterans’ Coffee Truck back into service and give veterans a meaningful way to contribute to their community, alongside local young people who are taking positive steps to change their futures.”
Nicky Ness, Director of Broadcasting and Entertainment at BFBS added:
“We’re proud to open the BFBS Big Salute’s 2026 grant applications, and once again invite charities supporting the British Armed Forces community to come forward. Each year we are inspired by the dedication, innovation and compassion shown by organisations working to make a real difference to service personnel, veterans, and their families. Thanks to the generosity of our audiences and staff, every pound raised goes directly to those who need it most – we look forward to supporting and sharing the stories of this year’s successful projects across BFBS.”
Last year, the grants supported a wide range of initiatives, including:
- Veterans into Logistics to fund HGV driver training for veterans.
- Little Troopers to expand its educational programme supporting service children in schools.
- HorseBack UK to support veterans through its equine-based wellbeing project, which uses horsemanship to aid mental health and personal recovery.
- Reading Force to support military families with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Charities interested in applying for funding can visit www.bigsalute.com for more information including eligibility criteria, and to request an application form. The deadline for submissions is 31 July 2026.
