Scotland’s third sector is buzzing with innovation, and The Corra Foundation is emerging as a key force for change.
Dedicated to tackling inequality and poverty, Corra’s mission is to help individuals and communities thrive by supporting grassroots initiatives and championing systemic transformation.
At its core, Corra provides grants to small organisations, forging partnerships and fostering collaboration with a strong community-led approach. But its impact goes far beyond financial support. The foundation works closely with groups like Edinburgh’s Bengali women’s organisation, Mohilia Ogrojatra, empowering and supporting women through business development and second language education.
By equipping local groups with resources and opportunities to grow, Corra is helping communities thrive from within. Supporting Human Rights Through Strategic Funding – Corra’s commitment to human rights – is exemplified by its Independent Human Rights Fund for Scotland.
With a new round of grants totalling £857,000, the foundation is investing in initiatives that enable children and adults to understand, advocate for, and exercise their rights. These funds will be shared among 15 organisations across Scotland, building on earlier funding from 2024.
This strategic investment targets those most vulnerable to rights violations, empowering communities to use the law as a tool for transformation. “It is a critical time for human rights in Scotland,” said Carolyn Sawers, CEO of Corra Foundation. “These grants support vital work to help children and adults understand their rights, campaign and advocate together, and use the law to change systems.”
I have lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament to recognise Corra’s efforts to combat racism, including antisemitism, in Scotland through its Racial Equity Grants. These grants provide £10,000 each to four organisations – the Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights, Edinburgh Interfaith Association, Scottish Council of Jewish Communities, and Urban Community Project – to address issues affecting children, young people, schools, and mental health in the face of racism. Founded in 1985, with roots dating back to 1810, the Corra Foundation has a long history of supporting disadvantaged communities, and we must recognise the vital role of third sector organisations in fostering a fairer, more inclusive society.
The work supported by these grants will amplify community voices, strengthen advocacy efforts, and drive systemic change. Corra’s dedication to collective action is an inspiring example of how third-sector organisations can create lasting impact. It is collaboration like this that helps shape policies to reflect the needs of Scotland’s diverse communities.
