Charities across Northamptonshire are being encouraged to put their names forward for the 2026 Franklins £50 Challenge, which has grown into one of the county’s most successful community fundraising campaigns.
The initiative, led by Franklins Solicitors — which has offices in Northampton and Milton Keynes — has been running for eight years and brings together businesses, schools, and community groups to raise money for local causes. Each participating team is given £50 in seed funding by Franklins and tasked with turning it into as much as possible through creative fundraising.
The 2026 Challenge takes place from 23 February to 29 May, with twelve charities selected to benefit. Nominations close on Friday 3 October 2025.
Over the years, fundraising efforts have ranged from coffee mornings and sponsored walks to raffles, concerts, and adrenaline-fuelled skydives. In 2025, the campaign achieved its biggest success yet, with 57 teams raising more than £59,000 for charities supporting families, young people, and vulnerable adults across Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes.
Andrea Smith, equity partner at Franklins Solicitors, said:
“The Franklins £50 Challenge is proof that small beginnings can lead to extraordinary impact. We’re proud to have grown this initiative from supporting just three charities in its first year to twelve today. For 2026, we’re looking forward to partnering with charities that make a real difference to people at every stage of life. It’s a privilege to shine a light on the incredible work being done in our communities.”
Charities based in Northampton, Milton Keynes, and the surrounding areas are invited to apply online at www.franklins50.co.uk. Businesses, community organisations, and individuals can also sign up to take part in the fundraising challenge as a team.
