Conference Overview

As the range of possible programmes and projects for learning, development, employability and NEET gets wider and wider – so does the list of possible funding sources.

This one-day Conference is designed to help organisations involved in the sector to improve their take-up of the broad spectrum of new and existing funding sources whilst developing project ideas and innovative approaches.

Last year’s conference: “Funding – Maze or Opportunity” took place in the climate of impending change to Government Agencies and Policies, a change of focus of EU funding and some different approaches to third sector support.

Since then economic uncertainty has developed into recession which will inevitably affect levels of funding in 2010 even if the economy is showing signs of recovery. Programmes related to employment are likely to grow whilst some other areas may be squeezed. However, there will be many opportunities as the Government and their agencies, the EU and other sources of funding turn their attention to reducing unemployment, stimulating the economy and supporting vulnerable sectors.

The challenge in this volatile climate is to be fully aware of the plethora of opportunities and the focus required by the funding bodies to then apply these to the needs and demands of learners, clients and others. Innovation is encouraged by some of the departments, agencies and commissions where this engages with hard to reach groups and delivers the outcomes required.

The conference will use plenary sessions to present views on policy, sources of funding and programme scope whilst a wide variety of workshops will be used to focus on the detail and show how ideas can be applied and developed into successful projects for both core funding and short term initiatives and interventions.

Who should attend?

Training Providers
FE Colleges
Universities
Consultants
Local Authorities and Adult Education Providers
Voluntary Sector and Charitable organisations
Providers of Employment and Employability programmes
Information, Advice and Guidance provision