Why Networks Matter Right Now

Building Fundraising Capacity and Confidence within the Sector

Fundraising training covering both practical skills and strategic approaches remains a priority.

Exeter Artnership (funded through Exeter Phoenix) brought people together through five in-person events, each attended by over 15 people. Speakers from around the country presented on topics including Major Gifts, Crowdfunding, and Corporate Partnerships, with insights captured in a ‘top tips’ booklet for attendees.

“Thanks to the funding, we were able to attract a range of expert speakers who shared their knowledge and insights generously, sparking new ideas and providing practical tips for fundraisers at all stages of their journeys here in Exeter.”

Holly Lawrence, Exeter Phoenix

Lasting Networks of Support

Many felt the benefits of relationship building in their network, rather than simply traditional training. Events were designed as spaces for discussion, support and peer learning.

Sounding Board by Cultural Collisions brought together 101 attendees for a one-day in-person pilot event open to freelancers and arts organisations from the Humber region. It prioritised honest conversation, peer-to-peer learning and informal exchange. The day was structured around panels, presentations and breakouts, focusing on core themes of Making Art, Making Art Happen and Making Art Accessible. Feedback highlighted a strong appetite for continued collaboration to strengthen networks across the region, and several further events have been arranged, both by network members and groups of artists.

“Support from the Networks Fund enabled us to pilot a new regional gathering that empowered freelancers, developed skills, improved collaboration and sparked fresh initiatives for a stronger creative future in the Humber.”

Paul Smith, Chair, Cultural Collisions

Holistic support for Freelancers, Individual Practitioners and Emerging Creatives

Several networks focused on these groups, recognising that they often have fewer structured opportunities for development and support.

Platform Thirty1 delivered three Creative Women’s Network events, including training around place-based fundraising, marketing, and business planning – all key areas within their network. Based on feedback from the sessions supported by Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy, further sessions on overcoming imposter syndrome and confidence building have been developed. Platform Thirty1 is also working in collaboration with other organisations on a cross-sector event, aiming to increase freelancer access to funding opportunities.

“This funding demonstrated the power of convening freelancers around shared challenges, highlighting how peer learning and collective reflection can build confidence, strengthen networks, and unlock new opportunities.”

Samantha Whelan, Platform Thirty1

Inclusion, Accessibility and Representation

Inclusivity was a primary concern across several of the projects, both in terms of targeted audiences and event design.

Sheffield Grassroots Culture Makers (funded through Andro and Eve) is made up of three small organisations led by and serving marginalised communities in South Yorkshire. Fundraising workshops were held for both network members and the wider arts community. Inclusivity was prioritised, including BSL interpretation, supporting D/deaf participants. When changes to venue policies risked limiting access for transgender attendees, the event was moved to ensure inclusivity. The diversity of registrations reflects the approach taken, as 26% were from the Global Majority, 54% were LGBQ, 14% were transgender, and 43% were disabled (including long term health conditions).

“The level of support provided enabled us to initiate this network in a meaningful way, allowing us to reach and engage with other diverse-led micro-organisations in the city, and start to build knowledge and skills around financial sustainability and strategic fundraising. This is a strong foundation for us to continue to build a network with longer lasting impact in order to strengthen the culture sector in Sheffield, ensuring a wide range of communities can access culture in their city.”

Finn Warman, Artistic and Executive Director, Andro and Eve

Regional and Place-Based Networks

Many networks focused on building and strengthening regional cultural ecosystems and accessing place-based giving.

Arts and Heritage Alliance Milton Keynes (AHA-MK) brought together 68 participants from a diverse range of community groups and cultural organisations in the city for a Community, Culture and Collaboration Conversation. This responded directly to local need, as there was a sense of a lot of cultural heritage work being delivered across the city, but no existing network to bring people together to share experiences and connect. The agenda was adapted following discussions with community group leaders, as demand to speak far exceeded expectations. Feedback highlighted the importance of continued (and broadened) connection, and AHA-MK and partner Community Action are planning a second conference for late 2026 or early 2027.

“We created peer-to-peer conversations bringing two networks together for the first time to hear how they could learn from each other. The biggest impact of the funding was understanding the core challenges one network is experiencing and how we need to work harder to bring both networks together again in a much bigger way in future. There is so much more we can do!”

Hannah Ellams, AHA-MK