Aimed at RYA-affiliated sailing, yacht clubs, charities and university teams across the UK, Sunsail’s Funding the Future initiative offers the opportunity to secure up to £6,000 of funding to invest in facilities, equipment, and innovative programmes designed to grow participation in sailing at grassroots level. In addition to the top prize, Sunsail will also award £2,000 to two runners-up.  

The funding can be used for:

• Improving club facilities 
• Purchasing new or upgraded equipment 
• Expanding youth training and outreach programs 
• Promoting sustainability in club operations 

Ultimately, supporting initiatives that strengthen clubs and grow participation. 

New for 2026: Supporting women and girls in sailing 

For the first time, the Funding the Future initiative will introduce a focus on women and girls in the judging criteria, where clubs, charities and university teams are invited to write how they are supporting female participation - whether through new initiatives or the expansion of existing programmes.  

Dee Caffari MBE, Funding the Future judge, Sunsail Ambassador and record-breaking sailor, remains a core part of the initiative. Having recently participated in the Jules Verne record attempt as the first all-female crew, Dee continues to advocate for club accessibility. She says: “I am thrilled to see Sunsail encouraging clubs to showcase their support for female participation.  

“Grassroots sailing clubs play a vital role in encouraging inclusivity and accessibility in a sport that can and should be enjoyed by all. They are the place where confidence is built, skills are learned, and passion begins. Ensuring these clubs are recognised for their inclusive programmes and environments is paramount to inspiring the next generation of sailors.”  

Gareth Brookes, Head of Regions at the RYA says: “Through Sunsail's Funding the Future initiative, I’m continually inspired by the creativity and commitment shown by sailing clubs across the UK.  

“Incorporating women and girls into the judging criteria this year is an exciting and important step in supporting broader participation and ensuring our sport is accessible and welcoming to all. I’m looking forward to seeing the innovative projects that emerge and to celebrating the positive impact they will have within their communities.” 

Making an impact 

Funding the Future has already delivered a significant impact across UK sailing clubs. Otley Sailing Club from West Yorkshire was awarded the top honour last year, with Wilsonian Sailing Club and Henley Sailing Club celebrated as runners up. 

A spokesperson from Henley Sailing Club says: “Winning the Funding the Future runners-up prize was a huge moment for us at Henley Sailing Club and has provided a real boost to our community. Our original application was written by Charlotte, one of our nine-year-old sailors, so it felt only right that the junior members decided how the £2,000 funding should be spent.  

“The funding has created huge excitement and a real sense of ownership among the children. We’re incredibly grateful to Sunsail and the RYA for investing in our club.” 

First-year winners, West Lancashire Yacht Club, used funding to support increased youth and schools participation, including opportunities for young female sailors such as Kitty, who joined Sunsail at Cowes Week after discovering sailing only a few years earlier. 

Katrina Lawson, Head of Brand & Acquisition from Sunsail says, “We are proud to be relaunching the Funding the Future initiative for another year. Over the past few years, we’ve seen firsthand how the funding has enhanced opportunities for clubs and sailors.  

“The work Sunsail is doing is crucial to the future of these clubs, which are the heartbeat of the sport, driven by passionate volunteers and experts who not only offer life-changing experiences on the water, but also build communities.” 

“Looking ahead, we will be driving more opportunities for grassroots sailing, as well as supporting career development across the marine industry, including Skipper training, tech and digital skills and content creation.” 

How to apply 

To apply, clubs must complete an online application by Friday 22 May 2026.  

Applications should outline a clear vision of how the funding would be used and how it would benefit members and the wider sailing community - including attracting new participants.  

Sunsail is looking for the most compelling proposals and judges will consider impact, sustainability, long-term vision, innovation & creativity and financial planning. The judging panel will be looking specifically for uniqueness, practicality and relevance - specifically how the proposal aligns with Funding the Future’s objectives. 

The judging panel 

Entries will be assessed by an experienced and distinguished panel of judges drawn from across the sailing industry: 

• Katy Stickland, Editor, Practical Boat Owner 
• Mark Jardine, Editor, Yachts & Yachting Online 
• Gareth Brookes, Head of Regions, RYA 
• Katrina Lawson, Head of Brand & Acquisitions, Sunsail 
• Dee Caffari MBE, Sunsail Ambassador and offshore sailor 

Winners will be announced at the Southampton International Boat Show on Friday 18 September 2026. 

Last year's winners will not be eligible to apply again in 2026, ensuring new clubs have the opportunity to benefit from the funding. 

Find out more and apply today.