On 16 July 2026, BMECP was delighted to host our Meet the Funders event at the BMECP Centre in Brighton, bringing together funders, community groups, charities, and grassroots organisations from across Sussex for a morning of learning, networking, and collaboration.
At BMECP, we recognise that access to funding remains one of the greatest challenges facing many Black and racially minoritised community groups. While community organisations continue to deliver vital services, champion community voices, and tackle local inequalities, navigating the funding landscape can often feel complex and inaccessible.
The Meet the Funders event was designed to help bridge this gap by creating a welcoming space where funders and community organisations could connect directly, share knowledge, and build relationships.
Hearing Directly from Funders
Attendees had the opportunity to hear presentations from a diverse range of funders and organisations, including:
- Arts Council England
- Brighton & Hove City Council
- Govia Thameslink Railway
- National Lottery Community Fund
- Sussex Community Foundation
- The Ambergate Charitable Trust
Each funder shared valuable insights into their funding priorities, application processes, eligibility criteria, and practical tips for submitting successful funding applications.
The presentations provided attendees with a clearer understanding of the opportunities available and encouraged open conversations around the realities and challenges of applying for funding.
Meaningful Conversations and New Connections
One of the highlights of the event was the networking marketplace session, where community groups had the opportunity to engage directly with funders in an informal setting.
These conversations allowed organisations to:
- Ask specific questions about their projects and ideas
- Explore potential funding opportunities
- Learn about wider support available beyond funding
- Begin building relationships with funders and partner organisations
The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to strengthening communities and creating more accessible pathways to funding and support.
More Than Funding
While the focus of the event was funding, many conversations extended beyond grant applications. Participants learned about employment opportunities, community engagement initiatives, partnership possibilities, and future programmes that could benefit the communities they serve.
The event reinforced the importance of creating spaces where communities and decision-makers can meet face-to-face, share experiences, and identify opportunities for collaboration.
Thank You
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of the funders who generously gave their time, expertise, and support to make the event possible.
We would also like to thank the many community groups, charities, volunteers, and grassroots organisations who attended and contributed to the rich discussions throughout the day. Your commitment to supporting and uplifting communities across Sussex continues to inspire us.
Looking Ahead
The success of Meet the Funders 2026 demonstrates the value of bringing communities and funders together in meaningful ways. At BMECP, we are committed to building on this momentum by creating more opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community development.
We look forward to continuing these conversations, strengthening partnerships, and supporting Black and racially minoritised communities to thrive.
Together, we can create stronger connections, greater opportunities, and more sustainable futures for the communities we serve.
