This case study explores how The Shears Foundation, a small UK-based family foundation, has developed grant-making practices that prioritise transparency, trust, long-term relationships and operational simplicity. The foundation shares practical reflections on how thoughtful systems and relational approaches can support both funded partners and funders themselves.

Inside, readers will find concrete examples of how The Shears Foundation approaches application processes, relationship-building, unrestricted and long-term funding, reporting, and trust-based practice within the realities of a small team. The case study also offers a useful perspective for funders and practitioners interested in reducing unnecessary burdens, designing clearer and more accessible processes, and building funding approaches that better reflect the realities of movements, community organisations and philanthropic teams.

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