Funders are committing to a new campaign to be more flexible and make grant processes simpler and more transparent.
The Institute for Voluntary Action Research (IVAR), in collaboration with London Funders and a small group of UK foundations and charities, has launched a campaign to encourage funders to adopt more open and trusting practices to support the VCSE sector, particularly in times of uncertainty caused by COVID-19.
The #FlexibleFunders campaign is asking for funders to sign up and adopt the eight commitments which aim to make funding practices simpler and more flexible.
The eight commitments are:
GRANTfinder’s annual survey of funders for 2020 found that complex funding guidelines and misunderstanding eligibility criteria were hindering organisations from receiving critical funding.
Funders who sign up to the eight commitments will join a community of practice with other funders and with VCSE organisations to help everyone adapt and improve.
James Banks, CEO at London Funders, said:
“We are proud to join with our friends at IVAR and across the funding community to call for the achievements of 2020 to strengthen our work for the future. Over 400 organisations signed our ‘We stand with the sector’ statement at the start of the crisis, and we believe that the eight funder commitments are the natural next step to take for funders who have already pledged to adapt activities, be financially flexible, and to listen. We encourage all of our members to sign up to the commitments, and to make practical changes where necessary, so that together we can enable our communities to thrive.”
Funders can sign up to the campaign here.