National Portfolio Organisation - Where to start?

Thinking about applying for Arts Council England’s National Portfolio 2028–33, but not sure where to start?

Community Foundation North East is pleased to offer two practical sessions for cultural organisations in our region who are thinking about applying for Arts Council National Portfolio. These are independent sessions and not endorsed by ACE. They will be delivered by a freelance consultant, Hannah Keville.

Hannah is an arts fundraising specialist and freelance consultant. She first turned to fundraising to support her own artistic practice and participatory arts projects before specialising in arts fundraising through the Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy Fellowship in 2014. She went freelance in 2021 after seven years fundraising for organisations including the National Centre for Circus Arts, Create Gloucestershire and Ministry of Stories.

Hannah works independently and is not employed by, affiliated with or representing Arts Council England. Her NPO support is based on her professional experience of arts fundraising and supporting artists and arts organisations to secure Arts Council England funding.

This practical introductory session will help you get to grips with the new NPO process, understand what Arts Council England is looking for and decide whether becoming an NPO is the right opportunity for your organisation.

We’ll help you interpret the guidance and explore:

• What’s new for NPO 2028–33? – the key changes, priorities and what you really need to know.
• Is NPO right for your organisation? – what Arts Council England expects from National Portfolio Organisations and how to assess your readiness.
• How can you make your organisation stand out? – identifying your strengths and the contribution you could make to the National Portfolio.
• What should you be doing now? – practical steps you can take to prepare for writing your application.
  
  By the end of the session, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the opportunity NPO presents, how well positioned your organisation is to pursue it, and the practical next steps you can take to get ready.
  
  Duration: 60-minute session + up to 60 minutes of Q&A
  
  We look forward to seeing you there.