NFL Foundation UK’s Birmingham and Manchester Expansion Open for Applications
February 17, 2023
Following two years of impact in supporting underserved youth in London, the NFL Foundation UK is now teaming up with Sport England to expand the reach of its NFL Flag youth programme into Birmingham and Greater Manchester. Community organisations in the region can apply for funding through 13 March.
The charitable arm of the NFL within Britain focuses on tackling inequality and the lack of opportunities for youth aged 12-20 in underserved communities through American Football, its non-contact version NFL Flag and the “NFL Values” mission. As part of the new partnership, NFL Foundation UK and Sport England will provide equipment and training in partnership with local community charities. Each co-created partnership will focus on supporting young people around the areas of education, employment, building inclusive communities and improving physical and mental wellbeing.
"It has always been our ambition to expand the NFL Foundation UK beyond London and engage more young people, and we are looking forward to working with local community organisations to co-create programs that will support local needs. We know how powerful NFL Flag is in connecting with underrepresented groups to help young people get active, and we are excited about the potential to further impact the lives of youngsters in the UK," said Henry Hodgson, General Manager NFL UK.
Beyond Sport has been supporting the rollout of the London program since its inception and is excited to help build on the successes and support more local community organisations and youth in the UK. The NFL Foundation UK was founded in 2021 with the support of our sister consultancy, thinkBeyond and has since benefitted 15 organisations across 18 London boroughs with funding from the Mayor of London totalling £800,000 over two years. Over 2500 young people in the capital will take part in the programmes, 58% of whom are female and 75% from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
NFL Foundation UK and Sport England’s two-year endeavour builds upon a shared ambition to help more under-represented young people through the power of sport, education and opportunity. The expansion will help 12-20 year olds develop the skills, confidence and self-belief to take control of their futures and positively impact society.
"In working with local community groups in Birmingham and Manchester themselves, and by providing a blend of opportunity, equipment and training, we believe this unique partnership can be transformational in helping more young people find a love for sport, while building social connections,” said Phil Smith, Executive Director of Partnerships at Sport England.
Charities and other community interest groups across Birmingham and Greater Manchester can register interest and apply for the new funding through 13 March.