The National Lottery Community Fund

Background

The National Lottery Community Fund, formerly known as the Big Lottery Fund, is the largest community funder in the UK. Established to distribute funds raised by National Lottery players, the organization supports projects that aim to improve lives and build stronger communities.

Key Strategic Focus

The Fund's strategy, titled "It starts with community," focuses on four key missions:

1. Supporting Communities to Come Together: Encouraging social cohesion and collaboration.
2. Environmental Sustainability: Funding projects that promote environmental responsibility.
3. Helping Children and Young People Thrive: Investing in the development and well-being of younger generations.
4. Enabling People to Live Healthier Lives: Supporting initiatives that promote health and well-being.

Financials and Funding

In the fiscal year 2023/24, the Fund awarded over £686 million to various projects across the UK. This funding is sourced from National Lottery ticket sales, with National Lottery players raising over £30 million each week for good causes.

Pipeline Development

The Fund has announced ambitious targets for the period 2024-2027, including:

Allocating more than 50% of all grants to communities experiencing the greatest poverty and disadvantage.

Dedicating at least 15% of funding to environmental sustainability projects.

Expanding grassroots funding to reach more than 80% of areas across the UK.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The Fund is exploring emerging technologies to enhance its grant application processes. Recognizing the need for more streamlined systems, the organization is considering software solutions that align with its goals of effective stakeholder engagement and excellence in grant-making.

Leadership Team

The Fund is governed by a board responsible for setting long-term strategy and key policies. The day-to-day operations are managed by the Chief Executive and the senior management team.

Leadership Changes

In November 2024, Dame Julia Cleverdon DCVO CBE was appointed as the Chair of The National Lottery Community Fund.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The National Lottery Community Fund operates within the broader landscape of National Lottery distributors in the UK. These organizations collectively allocate funds raised by National Lottery players to various sectors, including arts, heritage, sports, and community projects.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

National Lottery Heritage Fund: Focuses on preserving and promoting the UK's heritage.

Arts Council England: Supports arts and cultural projects.

Sport England: Invests in grassroots sports and physical activity initiatives.

Each of these organizations has a distinct focus area, contributing to the diverse allocation of National Lottery funds.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The Fund collaborates with various stakeholders, including government bodies, non-profit organizations, and community groups, to maximize the impact of its funding. These partnerships are essential for identifying community needs and ensuring that funds are allocated effectively.

Operational Insights

The Fund's commitment to community-led initiatives and its strategic focus areas provide a competitive advantage in addressing the diverse needs of UK communities. By aligning its funding priorities with pressing social issues, the Fund ensures relevance and impact.