Celebrating 50 Years
RATstands Community Programme
To mark 50 years of RATstands, we are giving back to the communities that inspire us, by providing £10,000 of product support to schools, charities, and non-profit organisations through the RATstands Community Programme.
The Community Programme
Practical Support Where it Creates Meaningful Impact
We believe music and the performing arts have the power to inspire, educate, build confidence, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for people of all ages. We recognise the lasting impact that creative arts can have on individuals and society, and we’re committed to supporting the organisations that make this possible.
Whether supporting young musicians, community groups, or educational programmes, we’re looking to help where our equipment can make the biggest difference.
Music Education
Supporting schools and institutions developing the next generation of musicians.
Performance
Providing reliable equipment for rehearsal and live performance settings.
Community Engagement
Supporting organisations that make music more accessible within their communities.
Access & Opportunity
Supporting initiatives that open doors to learning, creativity, and participation.
What is provided?
£10,000 of product support
We are providing £10,000 worth of RATstands product support to organisations using music, education, and the performing arts to make a positive impact in their communities.
Support is available across our range of products, including music stands, performance lights, microphone stands, musician chairs, staging, choral risers, and other RATstands equipment. Whether you’re looking for staging for a drama school, music stands for a non-profit organisation, choral risers for a school or choir, or equipment for a community performance space, we’d love to hear how our products could support your work.
The £10,000 fund will be shared between successful applicants, with awards tailored to the needs and potential impact of each project. There is no minimum or maximum request size, and we welcome applications from organisations of all sizes. Whether you’re seeking support for a small community initiative or a large-scale educational programme, we encourage you to apply.
All support is provided in the form of RATstands products and cannot be exchanged for cash.
Geographical Scope:
The Community Programme is open to eligible organisations in the UK and internationally. International applications will be considered where RATstands can reasonably deliver the requested products.
Who is Eligible?
Applications are welcome from registered charities, schools, educational institutions, and non-profit organisations that are making a positive impact through music, education, performance, or community engagement.
Key Dates:
Applications Open: 19th June 2026.
Applications Close: 18th September 2026.
Recipients Announced: By 31st October 2026.
The Application Process
Simple and Transparent
1. Submit Application
Complete our online application form with details about your support request.
2. Applications Reviewed
A selected panel will review all applications against the selection criteria.
3. Recipients Selected
The selected recipients will be notified by email.
4. Products Supplied
Product support will be arranged and delivered.
Ready to Apply?
Think your organisation could benefit from RATstands product support? Complete the application below and tell us about your work, the equipment you need, and the impact it could help you achieve.
What we’re looking to support
Selection Critera
Need for Support
Why this equipment is needed and how it will help overcome current barriers or limitations.
Potential Impact
The difference the equipment will make to your participants, audience, programmes, or community.
Practicality of Fulfilment
How suitable the request is for fulfilment, including product availability and logistics.
We encourage applicants to clearly explain their need, the products requested, and the impact the support will have on their organisation and the people they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s
Who can apply?
The RATstands Community Programme is open to registered charities, schools and educational institutions, and non-profit organisations. Applications are accepted from organisations based in the UK, as well as eligible international organisations where RATstands is able to reasonably deliver products.
Can individuals apply?
No. The programme is only open to eligible organisations. Applications from individuals applying in a personal capacity cannot be considered.
Is this cash funding or product support?
The Community Programme provides product support, not cash funding. Successful applicants will receive RATstands products rather than a monetary grant.
Can i request specific products?
Yes. Applicants are encouraged to request the products that would best support their needs. Requests may include music stands, microphone stands, lights, chairs, staging, and other RATstands products. While requests will be carefully considered, RATstands reserves the right to determine the final products awarded.
Will the full £10,000 be awarded to one recipient?
No. The £10,000 allocation may be distributed across multiple recipients to maximise the programme’s impact. The level of support awarded will vary depending on each application.
How are applications assessed?
Applications are reviewed based on demonstrated need, potential impact, alignment with the intended use of the products, and the practicality of fulfilment.
Can organisations outside the UK apply?
Yes. International applications are welcome from eligible organisations, provided RATstands can reasonably deliver products to the organisation’s location. All applications must be submitted in English.
How many applications can we submit?
Only one application per organisation is permitted.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 18th September 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
When will successful applicants be notified?
Successful applicants will be contacted by email by the 31st October 2026.
Where can I read the full Terms & Conditions?
The full Terms & Conditions can be viewed below. Applicants should read them before submitting an application.
Apply for Support
If you or your organisation would benefit from RATstands product support, we welcome you to apply.
50 Years Supporting Performance
Established in 1976, RATstands has spent five decades supporting musicians, educators, and performers through durable, practical, and innovative equipment trusted worldwide.
The Community Programme reflects a continued commitment to the people and organisations shaping the future of music.