Retail expansion project wins major award

We are very proud that our retail expansion project has not only appealed to so many philanthropists, but has been recognised for its innovation and impact, winning an award for Best Use of Major Donor Fundraising from the Institute of Fundraising.

How does the project work?

We want to add up to 100 charity shops to increase our income by up to £3 million after five years. This would reduce our reliance on local authority funding and donations for individual projects. The strong business model has attracted investment from individuals who recognise its sustainability and social impact.

Supporters can fund a new shop for £50,000 or a refurbishment for £21,000, and may choose their shop location, appealing to the desire to fund high leverage local activities.

To date the project has secured £200,000 in donations and £2.35 million in low-interest loans, significantly more than our targets.

Judges’ views

Judges were impressed that:

• The project constituted a proper investment model for major donors, leveraging funds with a well thought-through business strategy.
• The project allowed donors to choose different types of project, offering low-interest loans or one-off donations, with a local emphasis.
• The charity worked hard to achieve buy-in across different departments, working together to make the project succeed.
• Fundraising has beaten all targets and built a successful, sustainable model for the future.