New role to promote philanthropy in N Ireland
The Association of Charitable Foundations (ACF) will soon appoint a development officer for Northern Ireland to help increase the level of independent funding for the voluntary sector.
The primary role of the part-time post will be to encourage funders active in other parts of the UK to support the development of new philanthropy in Northern Ireland.
While reporting to ACF in London, the development officer will also be advised by and work with a locally-based steering group called the Issue Based Network (IBN). The IBN is a network of funders who have been established in Northern Ireland for a number of years.
ACF says the context for the new role is the progressive withdrawal of European funding, combined with budget cuts in the public sector meaning that many organisations in Northern Ireland are facing a tough and competitive funding environment.
ACF is a membership association for foundations and grant-making charities in the UK. There are now over 300 independent foundations in its membership, giving more than £1 billion per year.
It is hoped that ACF’s higher profile will also help identify those agencies interested in supporting the growth of new philanthropy in Northern Ireland.
www.acf.org.uk