Supporting Norfolk in a Tough Funding Climate
Working together to unlock Norfolk’s fundraising future
Across the UK charitable sector, many organisations are feeling the strain of an increasingly difficult funding environment. Rising costs, greater demand for services and shifting income patterns are putting pressure on voluntary groups of all sizes. Recent research from the Charities Aid Foundation found that less than a third of charity leaders believe the sector is in good health, with many citing cost increases and funding shortfalls as key challenges.
We know this is a challenging time for many in the voluntary sector, but we also see creativity, commitment and resilience everywhere we look in Norfolk. The Foundation is committed to standing with you, offering not just grants, but the support and connections that help strengthen the sector for the future.
Hearing from the Sector: Funding the Future 2026
Earlier this year, our colleagues Lauren and Jodie attended Funding the Future 2026, a sector event focused on diversifying income for charities and social enterprises. They joined workshops and discussions that brought charity leaders together to share insights on current challenges, as well as future funding opportunities.
It highlighted how vital it is to listen, learn and work collaboratively in these uncertain times. Engagement like this helps us at Norfolk Community Foundation align our support with the real experiences and needs of the sector.
Together to Thrive: A Fund Designed for Growth
In response to these challenges, we are proud to champion the Together to Thrive Fund. It is a targeted course developed and delivered by Creativity Unbound and Felton Fundraising, created to upskill workers in small and medium-sized charitable organisations at a time where fundraising is increasingly challenging.
The Together to Thrive Fund aims to:
- Help charities understand different funding streams to diversify their income
- Learn skills for long-term fundraising
- Build and strengthen local support bases
Whether you are seeking funds for a project, looking to invest in training, or exploring ways to build income sustainability, this fund is here to help you thrive in the long term.
You can find full details of the fund, eligibility and how to apply on our website. (Applications close on 11th March 2026)
Other opportunities
For VCSEs interested in developing their fundraising skills but are not yet ready for Together to Thrive, we offer a range of other training opportunities with local partners like Creativity Unbound and Felton Fundraising.
