The Atom Futures Fund, a joint endeavor between app-based bank Atom and the County Durham Community Foundation, seeks to empower sixth form students hailing from low-income backgrounds or under the care system to pursue opportunities at Russell Group universities. This pioneering fund aims to address systemic obstacles that impede academic advancement.
The first segment of the Atom Futures Fund entails offering a £250 financial incentive to a minimum of 20 eligible Year 13 students in County Durham who apply for courses at a Russell Group University. This monetary support is earmarked to assist with various aspects of the university application process, encompassing interview preparation, travel expenses, and procurement of study materials such as books and equipment. The second facet of the fund extends further aid, providing an additional £1,000 to applicants who secure and accept an offer from their chosen Russell Group University.
The supplementary support is designed to alleviate financial strains during university tenure, offering top-up funding in the second term of studies. Atom Bank and the County Durham Community Foundation have committed to awarding a minimum of five grants annually, commencing this August. 
Edward Twiddy, Atom’s Director of ESG, underscored the imperative of fostering opportunities for disadvantaged youth, particularly in regions grappling with profound socio-economic challenges like the North East. Through initiatives like the Atom Futures Fund, Atom Bank endeavors to play a proactive role in nurturing talent and bridging disparities prevalent in the community.
Michelle Cooper, CEO of County Durham Community Foundation, emphasized the transformative potential of initiatives like the Atom Futures Fund in affording youngsters from marginalized backgrounds the chance to actualize their aspirations and unlock their full potential.
The fund represents a cornerstone of Atom Bank’s broader commitment to driving local economic growth, fostering diversity, and identifying future leaders. The bank’s initiatives include partnerships with educational institutions like the Durham Sixth Form Centre, offering paid internships, and sponsoring scholarships to nurture the next generation of technology leaders.
Applications for the fund are currently open, with a deadline set for April 29th.
