SYCF retains Best Grant-Giving Foundation crown
South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) been named Best Regional Community Grant‑Giving Foundation for the second-year running.
SYCF won the crown last year and has once again been awarded the title at SME News Magazine's 2026 Business Elite Awards.
In its last financial year, SYCF distributed a record-breaking £2.1 million to voluntary and community groups across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield.
In the reporting period, the Foundation supported 669,317 people with an overall grant application success rate of 79.2 per cent.
This record-breaking year brings the Foundation’s 40-year impact to a total of £40 million in grant funding awarded to a diverse range of vital causes, projects and communities.
Now in its ninth year, the Business Elite Awards highlight the very best of UK enterprise. The recognition is the result of thorough research carried out by SME News’ team, ensuring every recipient is celebrated for their achievements, commitment to quality and positive influence within their industry.
Martin Singer, CEO of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF), said: “To have been named Best Regional Grant-Giving Foundation two years running is a fantastic achievement.
“It’s even more special to receive this recognition in our 40th year when we have proudly made a record-breaking number of grant awards taking our giving total to £40m over four decades.
This is testament to our small but incredibly hard working and dedicated team who really do go and above and beyond every day to ensure funding gets to those who need it most to tackle the most pressing community issues and make South Yorkshire a better place for everyone.
Meet Martin
Martin Singer DL is Chief Executive of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation, overseeing strategic growth and daily operations.
He joined SYCF in March 2025 and brings over 25 years’ leadership experience across the private and voluntary sectors. Martin is passionate about strengthening communities through philanthropy and partnership.
Alongside his executive career, Martin has maintained an active commitment to community development and governance, serving multiple charities from across South Yorkshire as a Trustee and Director.
Martin Singer DL
Chief Executive
Martin Singer DL's LinkedIn page