Fusion21 Foundation supports NAVCA with £50,000 funding to develop national impact framework for local infrastructure organisations

We are delighted that the Fusion21 Foundation is providing £50,000 funding to NAVCA to support the development of an impact assessment framework for local infrastructure organisations (LIOs) working across England’s voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector.

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With an additional £20,000 in match funding from NAVCA members, the project will create a practical tool to help LIOs better understand and show the difference they make in communities - work that’s often hard to capture, but vitally important.

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LIOs play an essential role in strengthening local VCSE groups by building partnerships, supporting volunteering, and helping organisations grow their capacity to deliver more for their communities.

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At NAVCA, we know that local infrastructure organisations play a vital role in supporting a healthy VCSE sector and enabling communities to thrive. Our members have told us that much of their impact — from connecting people and organisations, to building skills, influencing decision-makers, and enabling volunteering — often goes unrecognised. That’s why we’re excited to be developing new tools that will help NAVCA members better understand, capture and demonstrate the positive change they help bring about every day.

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Co-designed with NAVCA members, academics, local commissioners, and expert partners, including New Philanthropy Capital, the framework will enable LIOs to measure, understand, and communicate their value, both locally and nationally.

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As part of the project, a user-friendly impact dashboard will be developed to support data collection and reporting. Over time, the framework will help manage funder expectations, support continuous learning, and show how investment in local infrastructure contributes to more resilient communities.

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Jo Hannan, Head of Fusion21 Foundation, said: “We’re proud to be working with NAVCA on this ambitious project that will help bring greater recognition to the crucial support LIOs provide - so much of which happens behind the scenes and often goes unnoticed.

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“This project aligns perfectly with our commitment to making positive changes through learning, research, and evidence.”

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Once complete, the framework will help NAVCA members build stronger partnerships, secure funding more effectively, and enhance the support they provide to communities across the country. We look forward to sharing more about the partnership soon.