Big Meet Ups

Mark your calendar, up next is...

Impact, Mergers and Asset Pooling: What Charities can Learn from the Private Sector, with Bean Partners. On the 15th October at 16:00 - 17:30.

This session will explore how private businesses successfully merge, share resources, and deploy capital, and what charities can take from these practices. With a focus on rallying around a common purpose and making the most of existing assets, the discussion will offer practical lessons for organisations looking to increase their impact. It will also address common challenges in mergers and how these can be overcome.

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AI in the Third Sector, on 18th of June, 2025

This panel discussion explores how charities can harness AI to support fundraising, communication, admin, and marketing. Despite the potential, a recent Neighbourly survey showed that 58% of third-sector organisations don’t currently use AI. With increasing pressure on the sector, how can we bridge this gap, ensuring ethical use, data privacy, and upskilling staff for meaningful impact?

We were joined by expert panellists Lucy Jaffe (Global Industry Consultant), Binu Paul (Operating Partner at gunnercooke), and Damien Ribbans (Operations Director at Noise Solution), who bring a wealth of experience across AI, finance, and social innovation. From using AI for real-time social impact insights to navigating regulation and strategy.

Resources referred to or shared, can be found linked to this PDF icon.
The AI-native nonprofit era is coming: https://shorturl.at/vhz2f

Resources

Impact Reporting in the Third Sector with Emma Insley, on May 14th, 2025

Impact reporting is about more than just numbers, it’s about telling the story of the difference you make. In this session, Emma Insley (Founder and CEO of Insley Consulting) shared practical insights from over two decades in the non-profit sector. From capturing meaningful data to bringing your outcomes to life for funders, Emma unpacked how to evaluate and communicate impact with clarity, purpose, and integrity.

Please find attached her presentation and toolkit attached on the right.

Plinth: https://www.plinth.org.uk/

Learning Guide: https://insleyconsulting.com/resource-beyond-the-numbers/

Presentation

Toolkit

Challenges in Leadership and Financial Management

with Zenna Hopson & Jo Heldreich, on March 19, 2025

Leading and managing finances in a medium-sized charity can feel like walking a tightrope. In this session, Zenna Hopson (CEO of Dallaglio RugbyWorks) and Jo Heldreich (Finance Director at Dallaglio RugbyWorks and Founder of Beehive Chartered Accountants) provide a candid look at the balancing act of leadership and financial oversight. From budgeting pressures to board dynamics and team wellbeing, this session offers practical tools and refreshing honesty about what it takes to lead with clarity and confidence. Please find attached her presentation via the button on the right.

Social Media with Hannah O'Donoghue-Hobbs on October 16, 2024

In this hands-on session, Hannah O’Donoghue-Hobbs, founder of January92 Socials, walks through content strategy, community building, and storytelling techniques that turn passive followers into active supporters. With a warm and strategic approach, Hannah breaks down how charities can boost their reach and build authentic engagement without burning out. Please find attached her presentation via the button on the right.

ESG & Corporate Partnerships with Jan Iceton,

Jon Meech & Julia Dawson on May 15, 2024

In this rich and forward-thinking panel, Jan Iceton (Smart Works Greater Manchester), Jon Meech (Hands On London), and Julia Dawson (Duke of Edinburgh International Award) explore how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks are influencing partnerships between charities and the private sector. Learn how to align your organisation’s values with those of potential corporate partners, create proposals that resonate, and foster long-term relationships that go beyond just funding.

Using AI in Fundraising with Thomas Curtis, on April 29, 2024

What role does artificial intelligence play in the future of fundraising? In this thought-provoking session, Thomas Curtis of Richards Bridge demystifies AI and outlines practical ways it can enhance fundraising efforts, from predictive donor insights to personalised engagement strategies. He also shares ethical considerations and potential pitfalls, helping organisations make informed, responsible decisions as they explore new tech-driven opportunities.

Major Donor Fundraising with Dominic Tinner on March 15, 2024

Dominic Tinner brings decades of experience in fundraising and philanthropy, particularly in engaging high-net-worth individuals. In this session, he explores the principles behind successful major donor programmes, including cultivating trust, tailoring communication, and stewarding long-term relationships. With real-life examples and an emphasis on connection, this is a must-watch.

Marketing & Social Media with Nebula Norman on September 20, 2023

Nebula Norman, Head of Marketing and gunnercooke Operational Partner, shares actionable tips on how charities can use marketing and social media to amplify their voice and drive engagement. This session explores how storytelling, branding, and audience insights can be used to elevate campaigns and build meaningful connections online. Perfect for marketing beginners and seasoned comms professionals alike, Nebula breaks down what works (and what doesn’t).

Leadership & Strategy

with Lindsy James, Sylvia Simpson & Dee Mapasure, on May 18, 2023

This dynamic panel features three women leading organisations with bold vision and purpose. Lindsy James (Active Fusion), Sylvia Simpson (Money Buddies), and Dee Mapasure (K’s Wors) discuss how they’ve developed leadership strategies that reflect their values and communities. From navigating economic pressures to staying mission-aligned, they bring an empowering perspective on what it means to lead with intention and resilience in today’s nonprofit and entrepreneurial landscapes.

Grant Funding with Rachel Petrie, on February 18, 2022

In this insightful session, Rachel Petrie shares her wealth of experience in fundraising for the nonprofit sector. She offers a deep dive into the key elements of successful fundraising, including how to build relationships with donors, create compelling campaigns, and maintain long-term support. Rachel’s practical approach is especially valuable for smaller organisations looking to scale their impact through consistent and sustainable fundraising strategies.