Who it’s for:
- Local authority teams involved in funding, community regeneration and neighbourhood services.
- Charity and VCSE leaders.
- Anyone looking to strengthen their funding approach and access new opportunities.
What we’ll cover:
- Insights from funders on what strong applications look like.
- Approaches to grantmaking and engaging major donors.
- How the funding landscape is evolving and what it means for collaborative bids.
- How tools like GrantFinder can support your funding strategy.
Overview:
Join us for a focused 45-minute session exploring practical funding strategies and emerging opportunities in 2026.
Hear directly from experts at the National Lottery, a Local Authority, and a leading national children’s charity as they share what drives successful bids. Combining funder perspectives with real-world grantmaking experience, this session will give you a clear view of the evolving funding landscape.
You’ll leave with practical insights, proven approaches, and ideas you can apply immediately to strengthen applications and uncover new opportunities.
Agenda:
11:00-11:05: Welcome and introduction – Zoe Wood, Content Business Lead, Idox
Over 20 years’ experience across fundraising and government, leading insight into today’s funding landscape.
11:05-11:15: Funder insights – Jaymie Tapsell, Funding Officer, The National Lottery Community Fund
A Funding Officer from the National Lottery Community Fund sharing insight into current funding priorities and what makes strong applications stand out.
11:15-11:25: Grantmaking and major donors – Catherine Foster, Head of Grants and Major Donors, Caudwell Children
From a leading national children’s charity, sharing what attracts funders and how to strengthen your case for support.
11:25-11:35: Funding landscape and collaborative bids – Howard Collins, Bid Writer, Runnymede Borough Council
A local authority bids expert who has secured millions in funding, sharing practical bid writing techniques and partnership approaches.
11:35-11:45: GrantFinder spotlight – Zoe Wood and Timothy Crampton, Senior Account and New Business Development Manager, Idox Grants
Product insight, emerging opportunities, and how to strengthen your funding strategy with the right tools.
