Sam Grimmett Batt

What I do

I lead on partnerships and insight at UKCF, working with community foundations and national funders to grow resources for local communities.  That means shaping ambitious collaborations, using data and evidence to guide us, and championing the impact of community foundations across the UK to develop national partnerships at scale.  My focus is always on relationships and making sure funding is fair, inclusive and makes a real difference where it’s most needed.

About me

I’ve worked in philanthropy and social change for nearly two decades, from smaller foundations to London’s largest independent funder, City Bridge Foundation.  Along the way I’ve led big collaborative programmes, working on Propel and Collaboration Circle, for example, and have built partnerships with funders such as Comic Relief, Children in Need and The National Lottery Community Fund.  I've also helped shape place-based initiatives including LocalMotion and London’s Giving.  I care deeply about equity and believe in funding models that shift power to communities themselves.

Outside of work

I serve in a voluntary governance role at Amnesty International UK and I'm also a keen gardener and an enthusiastic (if not always expert!) sewer.  I help run a local open mic night, which is a brilliant way to connect with people and share creativity.  When I need to switch off, you’ll usually find me out in the countryside being walked by my very noisy miniature pinscher, Zebee.