Grants

The Air Cadet Charity provides support and funding for activities for young people which develop their skills, capacities and capabilities to enable them to participate in society as mature and responsible individuals.

We provide grants for activities that fall within the following categories and align to the RAF Air Cadets vision:

Aviation

Supporting aviation and aerospace training opportunities, including drone technology, flight-related activities and programmes that develop future aerospace skills. Funding helps provide equipment, training and resources that enable cadets to explore aviation in a safe and engaging environment.

Adventure training

Supporting adventurous activities, expeditions and outdoor learning opportunities that build confidence, resilience, leadership and teamwork. Funding can help cover activity costs, specialist equipment, safety requirements and expedition expenses.

Due to high demand, we launched an Adventure Training Equipment grant programme in 2026. This standardised AT package focuses on providing gear that meets the highest performance and safety benchmarks, and aligns with RAFAC training requirements.

Exploiting technology

Providing grants for digital equipment and technology that enhance training and reduce the administrative burden on volunteers. Funding can support computers, peripherals and other IT resources that improve learning and squadron operations.

Our new Digital Enablement grant programme, a dedicated funding window for Chromebooks, is launching soon. This is designed to give squadrons access to reliable, standardised devices that support both cadet learning and RAFAC delivery.

Immersive training

Supporting immersive learning through flight simulation, Esports and interactive technology. Our Immersive Tech grant is designed to create hands-on learning experiences that develop technical skills, teamwork and engagement.

Immersive tech:

Builds real-world skills in a safe, controlled environment.
Improves decision-making and reactions under pressure.
Increases squadron engagement.
Opens up access to experiences that would otherwise be too expensive or inaccessible.

Enhance education

Supporting educational opportunities that broaden horizons, build confidence and develop valuable life skills. Funding can be used for qualifications, STEM activities, educational visits, first aid training, leadership development, music programmes and learning resources.

Grants help cadets gain new experiences, achieve recognised awards and develop skills that benefit them in education, employment and everyday life.

Improve employability

Helping cadets and volunteers gain valuable qualifications, leadership experience and career-focused opportunities. Funding supports programmes that develop workplace skills, personal development and connections with industry.

We also support the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme and can help to reduce the cost of participating in DofE expeditions for Gold, Silver and Bronze.

Health and wellbeing

Supporting initiatives that promote physical activity, mental wellbeing, teamwork and personal achievement. Funding can be used for sports participation, equipment, qualifications and recognition awards.

Welfare

Supporting welfare and safeguarding initiatives that help ensure all cadets can participate safely and inclusively. Funding can support Cadet Centre improvements, welfare provisions at events and clothing for official overseas activities.

The Charity also provides comprehensive personal accident and overseas insurance cover for all cadets and adult volunteers, alongside funding for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks to help safeguard young people across the organisation.

Grant window dates

General Grants: 1st April – 24th July

Air Cadet Development Scheme: 1st April – 24th July

Adventure Training Equipment Grant: 29th May – 5th July

Digital Enablement Grant: Launching soon!

First Aid Grant: Launching soon!

Immersive Tech Phase 3: Date TBC

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