New research has shown that 75 per cent of businesses give nothing to charity – and Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) is hoping to change this statistic with the launch of its new fundraising initiative, Mission Makers.
GWAAC responds to around six people with life-changing illnesses or injuries every day – with each air ambulance mission costing £2,200 – and the charity relies on local community fundraising efforts to keep its air ambulance and critical care service going.
GWAAC is asking businesses for support to fund its critical missions, by pledging to raise enough in 2026 to cover the cost of one mission each.
And for the first 10 businesses who pledge by Monday 1 December 2025, a generous anonymous donor has promised to match their donations up to a total of £22,000 – meaning an extra 10 people will receive life-saving care in 2026.
Every business that pledges its support to Mission Makers will be recognised, with participants receiving coverage across the charity’s website, newsletters and social media; extra incentives such as free coffee, an airbase visit and CPR training; and lots of opportunities for team engagement and community visibility.
Every effort contributes to keeping the air ambulance flying, which has never been more important as the charity's mission numbers continue to rise.
2024 was GWAAC’s busiest year on record, with 2,272 people in urgent need and requiring immediate critical care.
Joe Hughes, GWAAC strategic partnerships manager, said: 'Mission Makers gives local businesses a real opportunity to make a tangible difference.
'Whether it’s a chilli-eating challenge, a bake sale, a half marathon or selling products to customers with a percentage donation, every effort counts towards funding a lifesaving mission.
'With match funding for the first ten pledges, your team’s fundraising goes twice as far.'
Kim Galpin is the marketing and communications manager at Gloucester construction company, EG Carter. The firm has pledged to support GWAAC by hosting its 2026 fundraising quiz in honour of the charity.
Kim said: 'Our partnership with the amazing team at GWAAC is something we’re all really proud of at EG Carter.
'Being part of Mission Makers is a fantastic opportunity to drive even more positive change in our local area, while enjoying some friendly competition in support of a charity that any one of us might need one day.'
GWAAC provides the critical care and air ambulance service for 2.1 million people across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset and parts of Wiltshire.
Any businesses interested in becoming a Mission Maker are asked to email GWAAC on partnerships@gwaac.com, visit greatwesternairambulance.com/support-us or call 0303 4444 999.
