Grassroots Run Deep: Launching in 2026

What is it?

Grassroots Run Deep is our programme designed to equip UK-based Black and racialised activists and grassroots leaders with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to formalise, sustain, and grow their work – on their own terms.

At Spark, we know that communities of colour are often the first to respond to systemic injustice – and the least supported in doing so. 

This programme is grounded in the realities of navigating the UK’s social impact sector as racialised people. It doesn’t promise a “right” way to operate, but instead offers a practical, anti-racist roadmap to help you make informed, strategic decisions about your work, your well-being, and your next steps.

Who is it for?

We welcome participation from:

  • Grassroots community leaders and organisers from Black and racialised backgrounds making change in the UK
  • Individuals or groups already doing community-focused work in the UK and considering whether and how to formalise
  • People navigating structural barriers who want clear, honest information and a supportive learning space.

Whether you’re a long-standing organiser or just beginning your journey, this programme is for you if you want to build sustainable community impact in the face of systemic inequality.

What does it cover?

Grassroots Run Deep is made up of six self-paced online learning modules.

  1. The Landscape: Understand the charity, funding, and social impact sectors – who’s who, what to watch out for, and where power lies.
  2. Institutions & Influence: Learn how laws, institutions, and the flow of money shape the environments we work in.
  3. Choosing Your Structure: Explore the pros and cons of formal legal structures, and whether formalising is right for you.
  4. Money & Models: Understand income generation, fundraising, and sustainable financial models for your work.
  5. Support Systems & Sustainability: Reflect on how to build networks of support and look after your own wellbeing as you grow your work.
  6. Storytelling & Impact: Learn how to articulate your vision and demonstrate the value of your work with confidence and clarity.

What else is included?

Live sessions: Alongside the modules, we offer three facilitated online sessions, at the beginning, midpoint, and end to help you:

  • Connect with other grassroots leaders
  • Ask questions and share reflections
  • Learn from guest speakers and case studies
  • Build a supportive peer network.

Activities and Quizzes: Each module includes reflection exercises and quizzes to help deepen your understanding and apply learning to your own context.

Resource Bank: You’ll also get access to a growing library of additional resources – articles, videos, and research to explore in your own time.

By the end of this programme, we hope you’ll have gained:

  • A clearer understanding of the UK’s social impact sector and its systems
  • Knowledge of legal and financial structures that could support your work
  • Knowledge of income generation and fundraising models to help fund your work
  • Greater confidence in navigating choices for your community work
  • Peer connections and networks of solidarity
  • Resources and tools to support your ongoing journey.
Ready to begin?

We’re excited to launch the first cohort of Grassroots Run Deep in Spring 2026! If you’re interested in being part of this journey, sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know when expressions of interest open.

👉 Sign up to the newsletter
It only takes a few minutes, and we’ll be in touch with more information ahead of the programme launch.

We created Grassroots Run Deep because we’ve been where you are – trying to make change while navigating a system that wasn’t built for us. This programme is about naming those challenges and helping you move through them with information, community, and care.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but we believe that clarity is power, and your vision is your North Star. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’re in the right place.

Explore our work