Someexamplesofcommunity-ledapproaches.docVIP

Some international approaches to community grant funding March 2011 Contents Executive Summary 3 Introduction 4 Trends and common themes 4 Community development approach / relationship model 4 Strategic Planning / investment approach 10 Simplicity of process / reduced compliance costs 11 Cooperative effort 11 Sustainability 11 Country reviews: Australia 13 Introduction 13 Part I: Commonwealth Government’s Social Inclusion Agenda 13 Part II State approaches 16 Part III Indigenous community grants 20 United Kingdom 23 General 23 What activities/ approaches are funded? 23 How is funding administered and managed? 24 Example: BIG Lottery 25 Scotland 28 North America 29 Canada 29 Federal Government funding arrangements for indigenous communities 29 Vibrant Communities 33 United States 33 Comprehensive Community Initiatives (CCIs) 33 Executive Summary This paper provides an overview of approaches to grant-making for community development in selected countries. It presents a high-level picture aimed to inform the development of a new funding framework for the Department’s Crown funded schemes. The selected countries are Australia, the United Kingdom, and North America (Canada and the USA). Some trends and key findings are drawn out from the country studies which follow: A community development approach to funding schemes is emphasised, in which communities are able to decide on their needs and priorities and lead development initiatives. An “investment” approach to community development in a number of countries has the advantage of encouraging a long-term strategic approach to community development. The value of organisations making links and working together is recognised in many countries. Funding is best when it is flexible, responsive and long term. Another common trend is the call fr