TOE's mission is to empower local communities in Oxfordshire to restore nature, address the climate emergency, and deepen their connection with the local environment. As Oxfordshire's independent environmental funder, TOE focuses on raising funds to support local projects that benefit wildlife, people, and the planet.
The guiding principles of TOE's grant program revolve around supporting local environmental initiatives with several key priorities: creating and restoring woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands to sequester carbon and aid nature's recovery; enhancing streets, parks, and public spaces for the benefit of wildlife, people, and the planet; connecting people with nature by improving access to green spaces and the countryside; and assisting local farmers and land managers in restoring nature, protecting the countryside, and adopting sustainable food production methods. TOE's Local Environment Fund offers grants up to £10,000 for biodiversity, access, and low-carbon projects implemented by community groups and non-profits across Oxfordshire. The focus is on projects that enhance biodiversity, improve public access to green spaces, and support carbon capture initiatives like tree planting or the restoration of community orchards.