Charities and community groups throughout Argyll and Bute are being encouraged to find out more about fundraising initiatives at an event in Lochgilphead on Saturday 17 March.

The event, which is focussing on non-grant methods of funding, will provide inspiration and information on everything from valuing volunteers and donors, renewables, tax breaks and wills, sponsorship and generating income through social enterprise and social media (TBC).

Guest speaker Finlay Craig, from Factsinternational, will kick off a very full day packed with workshops, a marketplace with stallholders, a fundraising ideas exchange and other speakers.

Councillor Rory Colville, Argyll and Bute’s third sector spokesperson, said: “The council has been involved with local community groups and charities for many years, and we all benefit from the tremendous work these organisations carry out.

“Charities and voluntary groups are a vital part of the fabric of our local communities.  They play a key role in helping to uncover and address local need and in connecting local people.

“These are challenging times for third sector organisations and I would urge them to come along to this event to increase their funding awareness and explore as many income generating opportunities as they can.”

Bill Stewart, Development Manager at Argyll and Bute Social Enterprise Network (ABSEN), said: “Argyll and Bute has around 170 registered charities, with dozens more unregistered community groups, and ABSEN has over 100 member organisations. Many of these organisations are struggling to survive at a time when grant programmes are being squeezed and are also often heavily over-subscribed.

“I hope that by focussing on alternative ways of generating income at this event on March 17 local charities, social enterprises and community groups can come to rely less on grant funding and have a more sustainable and secure future.”

The event, which will run between 11am and 4pm at Kilmory Castle, Lochgilphead, is being organised by Community Planning Partnership (CPP) partners, Argyll and Bute Council and the Third Sector Partnership, with support from InspirAlba.

Video conferencing may be available on the islands and minibuses may be available on the mainland from Helensburgh, Oban, Dunoon and Campbeltown if there is sufficient demand.  There is no charge for attending the event and lunch and refreshments will be provided.  Travel expenses will however not be reimbursed.

Places at the event are limited so if you would like to participate, please register your interest with Eileen Bellshaw at eileen.bellshaw@argyll-bute.gov.uk or telephone her on 01546 604189.