Sunderland

Supporting leadership development and funding for a more resilient and enterprising VCSE

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The Rank Foundation will support Sunderland’s social sector for three years (2024-2027).

Rank’s place-based approach is at the heart of this initiative. No place is the same, so no place-based programme is the same. But just like our investments in Hull, Dundee and Plymouth, the Sunderland Place-based Programme will build on existing strengths in the city.

We chose to invest £1.5m in Sunderland because it is a city in transformation, with a strong community identity and collaborative statutory leadership. Having spent time getting to know local voluntary sector leaders, it’s clear the sector can play a crucial role in community-centred regeneration.

Sunderland: Rich with Potential

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Long-term Vision

Boosting the impact of anchor organisations

We work closely with five community anchor organisations:

Each organisation is deeply embedded in Sunderland’s local communities. Together, they work, share knowledge and specialisms, and develop a unique city-wide social enterprise collaboration.

Leadership and social enterprise support training

We invest in the next generation of social sector leaders in Sunderland through tailored leadership development, social enterprise support, and bursaries.

Access to funding in open, micro, and repayable grants

The programme offers access to open, micro, and repayable grants, helping organisations create pathways for residents to access new economic opportunities in the city.