Our mission is
to support
transformational change in our world
through the growth and development of social entrepreneurs and social businesses
Photo courtesy: Opportunity International and Samhita India
Welcome to the English Family Foundation
We seek to support social entrepreneurs driving high-impact initiatives in Australia and the South East Asia region. Our particular focus is on supporting the underlying ecosystem to enable social entrepreneurs to thrive.
We focus on strong leaders and believe that now more than ever a thriving social enterprise sector will be an important market-based driver of a new economy that is more just, inclusive and sustainable.
1 million people
funded through microfinance 2010-19
Over $12 million
granted since inception
Impactful partnerships
to drive social change
*Through our partnership with Opportunity International
About us
The English Family Foundation was established in 2010 by Allan and Tessa English, and their strong personal values guide our principals.
Photo courtesy: ImpaQt Qld
How we work
We are dedicated to supporting ambitious social entrepreneurs that have the vision and drive to tackle entrenched social issues and to developing a thriving ecosystem to enable these social enterprises to achieve their social impact goals.
The English Family Foundation has three main pillars:
Engaged Philanthropy Initiatives
We are always looking to understand ways we can add value to the social enterprise sector.
Our “engaged philanthropy” strategy recognises our core belief in the role of philanthropy to go beyond grantmaking to use our skills, time and networks for the benefit of our partners.
Ignitor Fund
We are currently focused on supporting Australian DGR1 social entrepreneurs who are supporting the development of the ecosystem to enable social entrepreneurs to thrive and achieve scale. We are particularly interested in those collaborating to accelerate and deepen their impact.
Global Giving Fund
We are seeking to partner with Australian DGR1 international aid agencies who are creating grassroots, community-driven, people-focused social business or entrepreneurial solutions in tandem with one or more local partner agencies. In particular we are looking to support those working in Timor Leste or Papua New Guinea.
About us
Get to Know the English Family Foundation
through Our journey, Our mission and Our philosophy