Making its debut this week, the online community platform will give members access to in-depth resources, expert-informed guides and interactive training; all focused on reviewing, growing and diversifying income streams for socially-minded organisations.

Having battled crippling shortfalls in donations and funding in the wake of COVID-19, the Third Sector is currently facing an estimated £10 billion funding gap since June 2020. Even more worrying, over half of those in the charitable sector have simultaneously reported a surge in demand for their services, meaning that recovering that lost funding is more crucial now than ever before.

Oaks Consultancy, a Birmingham-based firm, is the team powering the Fundraisrs platform, and it hopes this new online community can give vital support to those looking for funding solutions.

Luke Southall, Managing Director at Oaks Consultancy, commented: “The economic uncertainty of the past 12 months has rocked the foundations of the Third Sector – affecting grassroots community projects and established charities alike – and with emerging studies reporting that one in 10 charities expect to close this year, it’s crucial that support is available for those looking to survive. It is these organisations that are the first point-of-call for people in crisis, and with the effects of the ongoing pandemic being acutely felt by so many, access to funding for these services is critical. This is where we see Fundraisrs having a huge impact for the sector.”

The project brings to the fore the knowledge of the Oaks Consultancy team, who have been operating in the sector for over 12 years and have combined 100+ years of fundraising experience, working with some of the leading socially-minded organisations in the UK and abroad. The online platform gives members access to this expert advice, as well as a community of like-minded peers and colleagues, who are trying and testing income generation initiatives in their own organisations.

What’s more, Fundraisrs is free at the point of launch, following backing by key investors like Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, and Oaks Consultancy continues to work closely with other partners ensure its longevity and legacy.

“We truly hope that Fundraisrs can provide a life-line for those looking to review, grow and diversify their organisation’s income, in these difficult times. The platform will allow fundraisers, leaders, teachers and volunteers to access remote advice, training and tutorials from strategy and fundraising specialists; not to mention an opportunity to virtually network and connect with like-minded individuals across the globe facing the same obstacles. We hope this helps as many as possible in the Third Sector to feel supported, informed and empowered, and we look forward to joining them on their journey,” concluded Luke.