Who is Sunder Katwala? The New Face on the UK National Lottery Community Fund Board

Sunder Katwala, an Indian-origin writer and founder of British Future, has been appointed to the board of the UK's National Lottery Community Fund. His role involves overseeing community funding strategies aimed at enhancing local initiatives. With a background in addressing immigration and integration issues, Katwala aims to foster dialogue and consensus on these topics. The National Lottery Community Fund plays a crucial role in supporting community projects across the UK, having distributed nearly £940 million in grants recently. Learn more about Katwala's vision and the impact of the fund on local communities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 8, 2026, 15:00 IST

Sunder Katwala Joins the National Lottery Community Fund Board

London: A writer of Indian descent has been appointed to the board of the UK's National Lottery Community Fund, a significant organization that provides funding for community initiatives through substantial grants.

Sunder Katwala, who is also the founder of the think tank British Future, commenced his new position this week. His responsibilities include overseeing the effective implementation of the fund's strategy and performance. The 52-year-old, known for his book 'How to Be a Patriot', will collaborate with chair Dame Julia Cleverdon and other board members during his four-year tenure.

As the Director of British Future, an independent and non-partisan think tank and charity, Katwala's appointment was confirmed by the UK government's Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

The organization addresses issues related to identity, immigration, and integration, aiming to foster confidence and unity in a rapidly changing Britain.

Since May 2026, Sunder has also served as a Commissioner for the Equality and Human Rights Commission and is part of the Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion.

A well-known voice on immigration matters, Katwala has previously been involved with the Fabian Society and the Foreign Policy Centre.

British Future aims to grasp public sentiments and contribute to discussions on often contentious issues, according to Katwala. He emphasizes the importance of listening to diverse opinions, seeking common ground, and proposing constructive solutions to foster consensus on immigration and integration policies that benefit everyone.

The National Lottery Community Fund allocates funds generated by National Lottery players to support communities throughout the UK, collaborating with local organizations and charities. It operates as an executive non-departmental public body under the oversight of the Secretary of State at DCMS, currently held by British Indian minister Lisa Nandy.

The fund's recent report for 2025-26 revealed that it distributed £939.7 million through over 14,063 grants nationwide, aimed at supporting initiatives that are expected to enhance local communities' long-term well-being and prosperity.