The Heritage Alliance’s Funding Advocacy Group has taken special interest in the Government’s 10 point Philanthropy Action Plan, responding to Heritage Minister John Penrose’s challenge that “heritage should get its fair share”. Meeting in October 2011, Alliance members contributed from their own experience to understand better any particular barriers, and to discuss with DCMS officials the unique challenges the heritage sector faces in attracting philanthropy in a very competitive market.
The Alliance has now responded formally to the Minister, with an analysis of the Plan and suggestions for taking forward the points with most potential for supporting our heritage. These include fiscal incentives, capacity building, and the legacy campaign. We have also had direct discussions on the Plan with English Heritage and the HLF, to see how best we can pool resources and networks. Alliance Chairman Loyd Grossman, already a member of the DCMS Philanthropy Programme Management Board, will be meeting Minister John Penrose with other heritage chairmen and chief executives for a Round Table discussion on 5 December.
The Alliance intends to use the 10 point plan to strengthen the independent heritage movement, so that they can take even greater responsibility for delivering the many benefits our heritage contributes to society. By refocusing fundraising techniques, diversifying revenue streams and developing stronger relationships with supporters, heritage bodies may be better placed to realise in financial terms the very deep attachment people have for place and community.
Tags: 10 point plan for philanthropy, Loyd Grossman, philanthropy, the heritage, The Heritage Alliance