Navigating the National Lottery Community Fund’s New Strategy: 5 things to know

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In April 2025, the National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) refreshed its strategy, ‘It Starts With Community’, building on its original 2023–2030 framework. The updated version places greater emphasis on addressing inequality, promoting community leadership, and creating a lasting impact through both service and infrastructure. A central shift is the introduction of two explicit funding priorities: […]

Evaluating Your Fundraising Efforts: The Importance of a Fundraising Review

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Fundraising is a dynamic process that requires regular evaluation and adaptation. A fundraising review is a powerful tool for assessing your current strategies, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring your efforts align with your organisation’s mission and goals. At Craigmyle, we’ve helped numerous organisations conduct comprehensive fundraising reviews that lead to stronger outcomes. In this […]

Is Your Organisation Ready for a Capital Campaign?

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Launching a capital campaign is an exciting and ambitious step for any organisation. Whether it’s funding a new building, restoring a heritage site, or expanding your mission impact, capital campaigns require careful planning, strong leadership, and broad community support. But how do you know when you’re ready? At Craigmyle, we’ve walked alongside countless charities, churches, […]

Securing Heritage Funding: Tips for Successful Applications

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Securing funding for heritage projects can often feel like a daunting task. Whether you’re preserving a historic building, restoring a cultural landmark, or launching an educational initiative around heritage, accessing the right funds is essential to bring your vision to life. At Craigmyle, we’ve worked alongside countless organisations to secure the funding they need for […]

The Role of Fundraising Consultants in Maximising Your Fundraising Potential

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Fundraising is the lifeblood of many charities, heritage organisations, churches, and educational institutions. However, navigating the complexities of fundraising can be challenging, particularly when facing ambitious targets, changing donor landscapes, and increasing competition for funds. This is where fundraising consultants can play a crucial role. At Craigmyle, we have spent decades supporting organisations in developing […]

Fundraising in a Community: A smarter approach for charities, churches and schools

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Aaron Barbour, the newest member of Craigmyle, has been fundraising in communities for more than 20 years. He shared some insights at our recent team meeting, which we want to share more widely here with you. Fundraising in a community is often confused with community fundraising. But they’re not the same thing. Community fundraising is […]

Fundraising for churches in 2025: challenges, opportunities and a plan for success

Historic stone church with clock tower and stained glass.

Last week ‘Craigmyle in Conversation’ brought together a number of church leaders to discuss the changing funding landscape. If fundraising for churches in 2025 feels tougher than ever then you’re not alone. The funding situation for churches and charities in the UK is shifting. Economic uncertainty, rising costs and changes in charitable trusts priorities are […]

Why You Should Consider Hiring a Fundraising Consultancy

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Fundraising is a vital part of sustaining and growing your organisation’s impact, but it can also be complex and resource-intensive. Many organisations find that partnering with a fundraising consultancy brings the expertise, guidance, and focus needed to achieve their goals. At Craigmyle, we’ve been supporting charities, heritage organisations, and churches for decades, helping them unlock […]

Conducting a Fundraising Feasibility Study: Key Considerations

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Embarking on a significant fundraising campaign, such as a capital appeal or major programme expansion, requires careful planning and preparation. A fundraising feasibility study is a crucial step to ensure your campaign is grounded in reality, aligned with donor capacity, and positioned for success. At Craigmyle, we’ve supported countless organisations in conducting thorough and insightful […]

The Value of Fundraising Mentoring: Guidance for Success

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Fundraising is a complex and evolving discipline, and while many organisations may have the drive to succeed, navigating the challenges of fundraising can feel overwhelming without the right support. This is where fundraising mentoring can play a crucial role. At Craigmyle, we recognize the immense value that comes from working closely with experienced fundraising mentors […]