The proportion of charitable foundation trustees that are people of colour has risen to 6%, according to data published today by the Association of Charitable Foundations (ACF).
While ACF said 6% is a “significant improvement” on its previous 1% figure from 2018, it remains below the 18% England and Wales population share of people of colour.
The proportion of people of colour on charitable foundations’ boards also continues to lag behind the wider voluntary sector (at 8%) and FTSE 100 companies (19%).
It also found that the proportion of foundation trustees over 65 increased to 60% from 58% in 2018, although it noted that the rise could be affected by the general population ageing.
ACF’s research, produced by PBE using Charity Commission data, also found that female representation among foundation trustees had risen from 32% in 2018 to 39% in 2025.
Its report notes that while trustee boards of grantmakers are becoming more diverse, there remain “significant gaps” in representing the communities that they serve.
ACF: Diverse boards bring ‘tangible benefits’
Carol Mack, chief executive of ACF, said: “Foundations – as civic actors with substantial independence and assets – are extremely well-placed to play a role in removing barriers and increasing access for communities that have been historically marginalised or underrepresented.
“A board of trustees that reflects the communities a foundation serves brings tangible benefits. It opens up access to a wider pool of talent, enhances knowledge of the foundation’s mission, increases credibility, and strengthens decision-making.
“ACF’s mission is to support foundations to rise to the challenges of our time.
“Building boards that reflect the communities foundations serve isn't just about representation – it’s about equipping foundations with the perspectives and insights needed to tackle today’s complex challenges effectively.”
