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ABOUT US
We’re a small but mighty community moving mountains together!
ABOUT US
We’re a small but mighty community
moving mountains together!
HOW WE STARTED
Crowdfunding before there
was crowdfunding
Crowdfunding before there
was crowdfunding
Francisca Kellett, The Times (5 March 2022)
Francisca Kellett, The Times (5 March 2022)
The Funding Network was founded in 2002 by four friends – Frederick Mulder CBE, Sue Gillie, Paul Kelland and Polly McAfee – who wanted to have more impact on the causes they cared about than they could achieve on their own.
The Funding Network was founded in 2002 by four friends – Frederick Mulder CBE, Sue Gillie, Paul Kelland and Polly McAfee – who wanted to have more impact on the causes they cared about than they could achieve on their own.
Frederick Mulder CBE, Sue Gillie, Paul Kelland and Polly McAfee in 2002.
Frederick Mulder CBE, Sue Gillie, Paul Kelland and Polly McAfee in 2002.
Frederick Mulder CBE, Sue Gillie, Paul Kelland and Polly McAfee in 2002.
They came up with a simple idea: bring people together – friends, family and colleagues at first – to pool resources and support small charities working for social change, especially those doing vital but often overlooked work.
They came up with a simple idea: bring people together – friends, family and colleagues at first – to pool resources and support small charities working for social change, especially those doing vital but often overlooked work.
Instead of long written applications, charities were invited to come in person, give a short pitch and answer questions from the audience. Guests then pledged funds, tracked on flip charts by enthusiastic volunteers.
By the end of each event, charities left with vital funding and new supporters. Guests left with a better understanding of complex issues – and a sense they were part of something bigger.
Nearly 25 years on, and with continued support from its founders, TFN runs an annual programme of events based on this original model. Often described as a mix of a TED Talk, a (friendly) Dragons’ Den and a live auction, it remains simple, direct and rooted in bringing people together.
The model has since spread to to 31 countries, with thousands of people taking part and building communities of giving in their own contexts.
Watch this film made in 2016 and narrated by our Patron Jon Snow, to see us in action.
Instead of long written applications, charities were invited to come in person, give a short pitch and answer questions from the audience. Guests then pledged funds, tracked on flip charts by enthusiastic volunteers.
By the end of each event, charities left with vital funding and new supporters. Guests left with a better understanding of complex issues – and a sense they were part of something bigger.
Nearly 25 years on, and with continued support from its founders, TFN runs an annual programme of events based on this original model. Often described as a mix of a TED Talk, a (friendly) Dragons’ Den and a live auction, it remains simple, direct and rooted in bringing people together.
The model has since spread to to 31 countries, with thousands of people taking part and building communities of giving in their own contexts.
Watch this film made in 2016 and narrated by our Patron Jon Snow, to see us in action.
Further reading
Further reading
Come to a TFN event and experience collective
giving for yourself
Come to a TFN event and experience collective
giving for yourself
OUR VISION
A world where everyone can give –
and everyone can thrive.
A world where everyone can give – and everyone can thrive
A world where everyone can give –
and everyone can thrive.
The TFN model is built on a simple idea: giving is more powerful when it’s collective, relational and transparent. It creates a space where people can engage directly, ask questions and make decisions together.
Over time, we see this change how people give. What starts as a one-off donation often becomes something more sustained – a deeper connection to causes, and a habit of supporting others.
It also strengthens organisations, helping them build networks of supporters who stay engaged beyond a single event.
Building on what we’ve learned in the UK, and with a growing international network, we’re working to take this model to more places and more people.
Our goal is simple: to help more small charities access the resources they need to support the most vulnerable members of our communities, and to grow a culture of giving that connects people to causes – and to each other.
The TFN model is built on a simple idea: giving is more powerful when it’s collective, relational and transparent. It creates a space where people can engage directly, ask questions and make decisions together.
Over time, we see this change how people give. What starts as a one-off donation often becomes something more sustained – a deeper connection to causes, and a habit of supporting others.
It also strengthens organisations, helping them build networks of supporters who stay engaged beyond a single event.
Building on what we’ve learned in the UK, and with a growing international network, we’re working to take this model to more places and more people.
Our goal is simple: to help more small charities access the resources they need to support the most vulnerable members of our communities, and to grow a culture of giving that connects people to causes – and to each other.
The Funding Network is run by a small core team, supported by an engaged Board of Trustees and a wider community of around 100 members, corporate partners and charity alumni. Together, we’re committed to growing collective giving and supporting small charities to thrive.
The Funding Network is run by a small core team, supported by an engaged Board of Trustees and a wider community of around 100 members, corporate partners and charity alumni. Together, we’re committed to growing collective giving and supporting small charities to thrive.
Staff team
Eugenie Harvey
Chief Executive Officer
Eugenie has been CEO since 2019, leading TFN through the pandemic and the shift to online and hybrid events. She previously led TFN International and brings over 15 years’ experience in social impact, behaviour change and philanthropy, including roles at 10:10 Climate Campaign and as co-founder of We Are What We Do.
Ana Carolina Moutella
Membership Manager
Ana leads TFN’s membership programme, supporting members to engage with events, nominate charities, and build meaningful philanthropic journeys within the TFN community.
Inês Ribeiro
Charity Manager
Inês leads the charity programme, managing the application and selection process, conducting due diligence, and delivering training and support to charities selected to pitch.
Sally Hoang
Finance and Grants Manager
Sally oversees TFN’s financial operations, including donation processing, bookkeeping and grant payments to charities. She also supports strategic decision-making through financial analysis and reporting.
Mihaela Giurgiu
International Coordinator
Mihaela coordinates TFN’s international programme, supporting a global network of partners to implement the TFN model through training, peer learning and coaching. She is based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Board of Trustees
Our Trustees bring experience from across the charity, public and private sectors. Together, they provide strong governance and a complementary mix of skills to support the delivery of our strategy.
Our Trustees bring experience from across the charity, public and private sectors. Together, they provide strong governance and a complementary mix of skills to support the delivery of our strategy.
Anja Batista Sönksen
Acting Chair
Anja is a senior strategy consultant at Action Planning, working in the third sector to support charities to grow, improve efficiency and adapt to change. She began her career in management consultancy in the corporate sector. She has been a member of The Funding Network since 2022 and has successfully nominated First Give, The Vavengers and the Colyton Foundation to pitch.
Wendy Brierley
Treasurer
Wendy is a Chartered Accountant with a background in financial services. Since retiring, she has been a Trustee and Treasurer at her local Citizens Advice and brings a strong commitment to supporting people in need.
Isabel Lee
Secretary
Isabel is Outreach and Partnerships Advisor at the Bank of England, where she leads public engagement programmes. Her background spans the tech and charity sectors, with a focus on collaboration and partnership development.
Siwan Davies
Trustee
Siwan is Director of Scaling Impact at the Fair Education Alliance, where she leads initiatives to support innovation and help organisations scale their reach and effectiveness.
John Hayward
Trustee
John is a senior finance lawyer with over 30 years’ experience in the City. He brings expertise in leadership and mentoring, along with independent judgement and a strong commitment to supporting small charities.
Rachel Tomlins
Trustee
Rachel is Head of Philanthropy at The Charity Service, specialising in donor engagement and effective giving. She also plays a leading role in the North West Philanthropy Network bringing together funders and sector leaders to share insight and practice.
Patrons
We are proud to be supported by:
Jon Snow
Journalist, broadcaster and campaigner for social justice
Juliet Stevenson CBE
Actor and advocate for humanitarian and environmental causes
We are proud to be supported by:
Jon Snow
Journalist, broadcaster and campaigner for social justice
Juliet Stevenson CBE
Actor and advocate for humanitarian and environmental causes
FUNDERS
How we are funded
How we are funded
Our income to meet our costs comes from a combination of sources that work together – reflecting the same principle at the heart of TFN: that more can be achieved collectively than alone.
A significant portion of our income comes from our community, through membership fees, ticket sales and donations. We are working to grow this over time, so that it covers an increasing share of our core costs.
Our income to meet our costs comes from a combination of sources that work together – reflecting the same principle at the heart of TFN: that more can be achieved collectively than alone.
A significant portion of our income comes from our community, through membership fees, ticket sales and donations. We are working to grow this over time, so that it covers an increasing share of our core costs.
We also receive support from a small number of trusts and foundations who share our commitment to collective giving and recognise the vital role small charities play.
We are deeply grateful to the community of members, partners and funders who make this work possible.
Further details can be found in our annual accounts on the Charity Commission website.
We also receive support from a small number of trusts and foundations who share our commitment to collective giving and recognise the vital role small charities play.
We are deeply grateful to the community of members, partners and funders who make this work possible.
Further details can be found in our annual accounts on the Charity Commission website.
READ THE LATEST
NEWS & VIEWS
Stories, insights and updates from our community
TFN alumni in action
It was a pleasure to see TFN alumni The Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation continuing to make a powerful difference in schools through its drug education programme.
Connector Plus at The OWO – a night to remember
Set against the remarkable backdrop of The OWO, last month’s Connector Plus brought people together for an evening of generosity, beauty and purposeful giving.
Inspiring the next generation
Our New Year Connector in February welcomed Year 11 students from Brighton College for an inspiring evening of philanthropy, social impact and meaningful conversation.
READ THE LATEST
NEWS & VIEWS
Stories, insights and updates from our community
TFN alumni in action
It was a pleasure to see TFN alumni The Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation continuing to make a powerful difference in schools through its drug education programme.
Connector Plus at The OWO – a night to remember
Set against the remarkable backdrop of The OWO, last month’s Connector Plus brought people together for an evening of generosity, beauty and purposeful giving.
READ THE LATEST
NEWS & VIEWS
Stories, insights and updates from our community
TFN alumni in action
It was a pleasure to see TFN alumni The Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation continuing to make a powerful difference in schools through its drug education programme.
Connector Plus at The OWO – a night to remember
Set against the remarkable backdrop of The OWO, last month’s Connector Plus brought people together for an evening of generosity, beauty and purposeful giving.
Inspiring the next generation
Our New Year Connector in February welcomed Year 11 students from Brighton College for an inspiring evening of philanthropy, social impact and meaningful conversation.
Frequently Ask Questions
Everything you need to know about TFN.
Below are answers to some of the questions we’re most often asked.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can email us at
info@thefundingnetwork.org.uk and we’ll be happy to help.
Events
Who are TFN events for?
TFN events are for people who are interested in discovering and supporting outstanding small charities and social enterprises. Our community is made up of individuals and organisations who want to learn about social impact and contribute financially to the causes presented.
What happens at an event?
Events begin with networking after which three carefully selected organisations pitch for funding. After the pitches, attendees are invited to pledge financial support, which is added to a live total in the room.
How can I keep up to date with events?
I’m not a member – can I still come to an event?
Yes, absolutely. Our events are open to everyone. Members benefit from priority booking and attend for free, while non-members can purchase tickets. Everyone can pledge to the charities on the night.
What does “pledging” mean?
After hearing the charities pitch, attendees commit an amount they would like to give. Pledges are added to a live total, and after the event you’ll receive a payment link to complete your donation.
Is there a minimum amount to pledge?
At Connector events, the suggested minimum pledge per organisation in the first round is £100. At Connector PLUS events, this rises to £500. There is no minimum in the second round, and no maximum in either.
Do I have to give publicly?
Most people choose to pledge publicly, as it helps build momentum. However, you can also pledge privately by text or after the event. Anonymous pledging instructions are shared on the night.
Can I donate if I can’t attend or after the event?
Yes. You can pledge remotely if you are unable to attend, and donations are accepted for up to one month after each event.
Do you only support charities?
Most organisations we support are registered charities, but we also work with other not-for-profits and social enterprises, including Community Interest Companies (CICs) and companies limited by guarantee. Non-charity organisations must have an asset lock in place to ensure any surplus is reinvested for social good. All organisations must meet our eligibility criteria and be nominated by a member to apply.
My company is interested in hosting an event — what should we do?
Please contact Ana to discuss corporate partnerships at ana@thefundingnetwork.org.uk.
Membership
I don’t have a lot of money – can I still join?
Our model works best for people who are able to make meaningful financial contributions to the charities on the night. Pledging typically starts at around £100. If you’re curious, the best way to see whether TFN feels right for you is to come along to an event and experience it for yourself. TFN is designed for people who want to actively support the organisations pitching.
I’m a member - can I bring guests?
Yes. Members can bring guests free of charge. First-time members’ guests receive a £100 voucher to give to one of the pitching charities.
I’m a member and I have a charity I’d like to nominate. How do I know if it’s suitable?
Are your events suitable for young people?
Yes, we recommend ages 15+. We also offer family memberships which would enable your family to enjoy all the benefits of membership.
Charities
How can a charity apply?
Charities must be nominated by a TFN member to be considered for a pitch. We do not run an open application programme. Member nomination forms part of our due diligence process and allows us to focus our limited capacity on supporting a small number of organisations at each event. Alongside raising funds, we aim to raise awareness of the work of outstanding small charities and champion their impact within our community, encouraging more people to support them.
Can I become a member to nominate my charity?
Members are also required to donate £100 at an event and sit on a selection panel before making a nomination.
General
How is TFN funded?
Through membership fees, a small levy on funds raised (typically 5–10%), individual donations and grant funding.
How do I pay my pledge?
After the event you receive a single payment link. Gift Aid can be added if you are a UK taxpayer.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment by card and bank transfer.
Do people usually pay for their pledges?
Yes. We have a very low default rate and follow up with all donors after each event to ensure pledges are completed.
How do I know my money made a difference?
All donors receive an impact report 12 months after the event.
More Questions, contact our team.
Frequently Ask Questions
Everything you need to know about TFN.
Below are answers to some of the questions we’re most often asked.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can email us at
info@thefundingnetwork.org.uk and we’ll be happy to help.
Events
Who are TFN events for?
TFN events are for people who are interested in discovering and supporting outstanding small charities and social enterprises. Our community is made up of individuals and organisations who want to learn about social impact and contribute financially to the causes presented.
What happens at an event?
Events begin with networking after which three carefully selected organisations pitch for funding. After the pitches, attendees are invited to pledge financial support, which is added to a live total in the room.
How can I keep up to date with events?
I’m not a member – can I still come to an event?
Yes, absolutely. Our events are open to everyone. Members benefit from priority booking and attend for free, while non-members can purchase tickets. Everyone can pledge to the charities on the night.
What does “pledging” mean?
After hearing the charities pitch, attendees commit an amount they would like to give. Pledges are added to a live total, and after the event you’ll receive a payment link to complete your donation.
Is there a minimum amount to pledge?
At Connector events, the suggested minimum pledge per organisation in the first round is £100. At Connector PLUS events, this rises to £500. There is no minimum in the second round, and no maximum in either.
Do I have to give publicly?
Most people choose to pledge publicly, as it helps build momentum. However, you can also pledge privately by text or after the event. Anonymous pledging instructions are shared on the night.
Can I donate if I can’t attend or after the event?
Yes. You can pledge remotely if you are unable to attend, and donations are accepted for up to one month after each event.
Do you only support charities?
Most organisations we support are registered charities, but we also work with other not-for-profits and social enterprises, including Community Interest Companies (CICs) and companies limited by guarantee. Non-charity organisations must have an asset lock in place to ensure any surplus is reinvested for social good. All organisations must meet our eligibility criteria and be nominated by a member to apply.
My company is interested in hosting an event — what should we do?
Please contact Ana to discuss corporate partnerships at ana@thefundingnetwork.org.uk.
Membership
I don’t have a lot of money – can I still join?
Our model works best for people who are able to make meaningful financial contributions to the charities on the night. Pledging typically starts at around £100. If you’re curious, the best way to see whether TFN feels right for you is to come along to an event and experience it for yourself. TFN is designed for people who want to actively support the organisations pitching.
I’m a member - can I bring guests?
Yes. Members can bring guests free of charge. First-time members’ guests receive a £100 voucher to give to one of the pitching charities.
I’m a member and I have a charity I’d like to nominate. How do I know if it’s suitable?
Are your events suitable for young people?
Yes, we recommend ages 15+. We also offer family memberships which would enable your family to enjoy all the benefits of membership.
Charities
How can a charity apply?
Charities must be nominated by a TFN member to be considered for a pitch. We do not run an open application programme. Member nomination forms part of our due diligence process and allows us to focus our limited capacity on supporting a small number of organisations at each event. Alongside raising funds, we aim to raise awareness of the work of outstanding small charities and champion their impact within our community, encouraging more people to support them.
Can I become a member to nominate my charity?
Members are also required to donate £100 at an event and sit on a selection panel before making a nomination.
General
How is TFN funded?
Through membership fees, a small levy on funds raised (typically 5–10%), individual donations and grant funding.
How do I pay my pledge?
After the event you receive a single payment link. Gift Aid can be added if you are a UK taxpayer.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment by card and bank transfer.
Do people usually pay for their pledges?
Yes. We have a very low default rate and follow up with all donors after each event to ensure pledges are completed.
How do I know my money made a difference?
All donors receive an impact report 12 months after the event.
More Questions, contact our team.
Frequently Ask Questions
Everything you need to know about TFN.
Below are answers to some of the questions
we’re most often asked.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for,
you can email us at
info@thefundingnetwork.org.uk
and we’ll be happy to help.
Events
Who are TFN events for?
TFN events are for people who are interested in discovering and supporting outstanding small charities and social enterprises. Our community is made up of individuals and organisations who want to learn about social impact and contribute financially to the causes presented.
What happens at an event?
Events begin with networking after which three carefully selected organisations pitch for funding. After the pitches, attendees are invited to pledge financial support, which is added to a live total in the room.
How can I keep up to date with events?
I’m not a member – can I still come to an event?
Yes, absolutely. Our events are open to everyone. Members benefit from priority booking and attend for free, while non-members can purchase tickets. Everyone can pledge to the charities on the night.
What does “pledging” mean?
After hearing the charities pitch, attendees commit an amount they would like to give. Pledges are added to a live total, and after the event you’ll receive a payment link to complete your donation.
Is there a minimum amount to pledge?
At Connector events, the suggested minimum pledge per organisation in the first round is £100. At Connector PLUS events, this rises to £500. There is no minimum in the second round, and no maximum in either.
Do I have to give publicly?
Most people choose to pledge publicly, as it helps build momentum. However, you can also pledge privately by text or after the event. Anonymous pledging instructions are shared on the night.
Can I donate if I can’t attend or after the event?
Yes. You can pledge remotely if you are unable to attend, and donations are accepted for up to one month after each event.
Do you only support charities?
Most organisations we support are registered charities, but we also work with other not-for-profits and social enterprises, including Community Interest Companies (CICs) and companies limited by guarantee. Non-charity organisations must have an asset lock in place to ensure any surplus is reinvested for social good. All organisations must meet our eligibility criteria and be nominated by a member to apply.
My company is interested in hosting an event — what should we do?
Please contact Ana to discuss corporate partnerships at ana@thefundingnetwork.org.uk.
Membership
I don’t have a lot of money – can I still join?
Our model works best for people who are able to make meaningful financial contributions to the charities on the night. Pledging typically starts at around £100. If you’re curious, the best way to see whether TFN feels right for you is to come along to an event and experience it for yourself. TFN is designed for people who want to actively support the organisations pitching.
I’m a member - can I bring guests?
Yes. Members can bring guests free of charge. First-time members’ guests receive a £100 voucher to give to one of the pitching charities.
I’m a member and I have a charity I’d like to nominate. How do I know if it’s suitable?
Are your events suitable for young people?
Yes, we recommend ages 15+. We also offer family memberships which would enable your family to enjoy all the benefits of membership.
Charities
How can a charity apply?
Charities must be nominated by a TFN member to be considered for a pitch. We do not run an open application programme. Member nomination forms part of our due diligence process and allows us to focus our limited capacity on supporting a small number of organisations at each event. Alongside raising funds, we aim to raise awareness of the work of outstanding small charities and champion their impact within our community, encouraging more people to support them.
Can I become a member to nominate my charity?
Members are also required to donate £100 at an event and sit on a selection panel before making a nomination.
General
How is TFN funded?
Through membership fees, a small levy on funds raised (typically 5–10%), individual donations and grant funding.
How do I pay my pledge?
After the event you receive a single payment link. Gift Aid can be added if you are a UK taxpayer.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment by card and bank transfer.
Do people usually pay for their pledges?
Yes. We have a very low default rate and follow up with all donors after each event to ensure pledges are completed.
How do I know my money made a difference?
All donors receive an impact report 12 months after the event.
More Questions, contact our team.
STAY IN TOUCH
Join our
Mailing List
Sign up to receive updates about upcoming events, stories from the charities we support, and our monthly newsletter.
You can unsubscribe at any time. For support, contact us at
info@thefundingnetwork.org.uk if you need assistance.
STAY IN TOUCH
Join our
Mailing List
Sign up to receive updates about upcoming events, stories from the charities we support, and our monthly newsletter.
You can unsubscribe at any time. For support, contact us at
info@thefundingnetwork.org.uk if you need assistance.
STAY IN TOUCH
Join our
Mailing List
Sign up to receive updates about upcoming events, stories from the charities we support, and our monthly newsletter.
You can unsubscribe at any time. For support, contact us at
info@thefundingnetwork.org.uk if you need assistance.