Securing the Future – Spitalfields City Farm

“Working with the team at Philanthropy Company has had two distinct benefits for us. Firstly, allowing the thinking time to explore ways in which we can improve and professionalise all of our fundraising activities. Secondly, providing invaluable extra capacity to help with more ‘hands on’ support, such as submitting winning funding applications. It has been great to be able to work with their dedicated and highly knowledgeable team of advisors.”

Phil Nichols, CEO, Spitalfields City Farm

Challenge

Spitalfields City Farm is the closest city farm to London’s financial district, yet it sits in one of Tower Hamlets’ most densely populated and diverse wards. The farm plays a vital role in the community, offering educational opportunities, building skills and confidence, and tackling social isolation.

Like many charities, Spitalfields City Farm faced major fundraising challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To secure its long-term future, the farm needed to explore new sources of regular funding, assess philanthropic opportunities, and develop a sustainable fundraising strategy.

Response

We began by laying the strategic groundwork, identifying potential donors and new funding prospects, assessing income streams to develop a three-year fundraising strategy, refining the farm’s Case for Support to strengthen donor engagement, and working with the Board to build confidence in approaching funders.

Impact

• Developed a clear strategy and partnered with the Farm to implement it.
• Drafted funding applications and secured multi-year grants to support sustainability and growth, covering capital and core costs.
• Secured over £500,000 in successful grant applications within 18 months