Last week we hosted a Funder Event to enable the local voluntary and community sector organisations to hear from local and national funders on current and upcoming funding rounds, as well as giving the opportunity to groups to network with one another. The session was well attended and we heard from:

• Berkshire Community Foundation (BCF) – current Surviving Winter funding and Vital for Berkshire funding to be launched in Jan 2024.
• The National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) – on their current funding and upcoming new strategy expected for Summer 2024
• Reading Borough Council, Small Grants Fund, currently live.
• The Earley Charity, on forthcoming funding rounds in January 2024
• Easyfundraising, ongoing opportunity to raise extra unrestricted funding.

The new format for the session was appreciated by attendees and included presentations with Q&A, followed by speed Q&A with funders and speed networking between groups. Many reported that this was an excellent use of their time, here is some feedback from attendees:

Great timings, good overview and opportunity to speak openly across charities

Good to meet/listen to funders in person and get some inside info that might not be on their website.

Clear information about the different funding streams available and top tips

Great to have in-person events again

Useful exchange and encouraging!

Here are the presentation slides from the session in case you were unable to attend, with details of the funding streams and deadlines.

If you need support with getting ready for funding, feel free to contact us at advice@rva.org.uk

We plan to host further similar Funder Events in 2024, watch this space!