Charities across Milton Keynes are being invited to apply to take part in the 2026 Franklins £50 Challenge, one of the region’s most successful community fundraising campaigns.
Now entering its eighth year, the initiative is run by Franklins Solicitors, which has offices in Milton Keynes and Northampton. It connects charities with businesses, schools, and community groups who compete to raise as much money as possible from a £50 seed fund provided by the firm.
The 2026 Challenge will run from 23 February to 29 May, with twelve charities selected to benefit. Applications close on Friday 3 October 2025.
Participants are encouraged to grow their £50 in creative ways, from bake sales and quiz nights to raffles, sporting challenges, and even sponsored skydives. In 2025, a record-breaking 57 teams raised more than £59,000 for twelve local charities — the most successful year yet. Previous beneficiaries have included charities providing family support, mental health services, and vital care for vulnerable people in Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire.
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 Milton Keynes, Northampton, and the surrounding areas can apply online at www.franklins50.co.uk. Businesses, organisations, and individuals are also encouraged to register to take part in the Challenge as a team.
