16/01/2026
Running a voluntary organisation or social enterprise is rewarding, but let’s be honest, it’s also incredibly demanding. Between delivering your services, managing volunteers, and securing funding, finding the time to step back and think about strategy can feel like a luxury you just can’t afford.
But what if you had a dedicated partner to help you plan for the future, strengthen your leadership, and navigate change?
That is exactly what the Essex Community Foundation (ECF) is offering with their newly launched Thrive Programme.
Delivered in partnership with the Cranfield Trust. The UK’s leading provider of pro bono management support, Thrive is a nine-month, hands-on development journey designed specifically for the Essex voluntary sector.
It isn’t just a series of webinars. It’s a deep dive into your organisation’s health. The aim is simple but powerful: to help local charities and community groups become stronger, more confident, and more sustainable.
If accepted onto the programme, your organisation will benefit from a comprehensive package of support, including:
Organisational Health Check: A structured diagnostic review to identify exactly where your strengths lie and where you need support.
Bespoke Mentoring: You won’t be doing this alone. You’ll get ongoing guidance from an experienced mentor and access to specialist expertise.
A Tailored Action Plan: Work with experts to co-develop a practical development plan shaped around your specific priorities, not a “one size fits all” template.
Peer Networking: Connect with other local leaders facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and learning together.
Exclusive Resources: Access to Cranfield Trust’s practical toolkits on governance, planning, and operations.
The ECF is looking for charities, voluntary groups, and social enterprises in Essex that are ready to look in the mirror and grow. This programme is ideal if you are:
Experiencing a period of transition, growth, or change.
Seeking structured support to improve your sustainability.
Ready to commit to a reflective development process over the next nine months.
Opportunities like this, combining local knowledge with national-level expertise, don’t come around often. If you want to ensure your organisation is resilient enough to keep making a difference for years to come, this is your chance.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Wednesday 21 January 2026.
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Visit the Essex Community Foundation website to read the full guide, check your eligibility, and download the application form.
👉 Find out more and apply for the Thrive Programme here
If you have questions before applying, the ECF Grants Team is on hand to help. You can reach them at hello@essexcf.org.uk or 01245 355947.
