Share of £750,000 to Get Young People into Aviation Careers – Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund

The Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund 2026–27, jointly administered by the Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority, is now open. Organisations can apply for a share of £750,000 for projects helping young people access and progress into careers across aviation and aerospace.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A £750,000 total funding pot

• Support for aviation and aerospace outreach and employment projects

• Careers information, advice and guidance

• Employer engagement and exposure to real-world workplaces

• CV, application, interview and employability support

• Mentoring and careers masterclasses

• Access to non-formal training that supports progression into work

• Projects addressing barriers faced by underrepresented groups

• Activities promoting workforce diversity, inclusion and social mobility

• Projects should demonstrate measurable outcomes such as progression into employment, apprenticeships, work experience or industry-relevant training

• Existing projects can be funded where applicants clearly identify what the new funding will support.

Who can apply?

• Organisations delivering projects focused on aviation and/or aerospace

• Specialist STEM engagement organisations can apply; projects do not have to be delivered directly by aviation employers

• Projects should primarily benefit young people aged 16+

• Younger participants may be included where activities clearly support progression towards future employment

• Projects must primarily benefit people in England

• Applicants must have a UK bank account

• Joint applications are permitted, with a clearly identified lead organisation

• Applicants must be able to manage the grant directly rather than delegating financial control to another organisation.

Deadline: 18 September 2026 at 12:00pm (midday).