BVSC Launches Fast Track Accelerator Programme for Business Development

Please note that this programme is now fully booked. If you would like to join a mailing list to hear about any future programmes, please click on the following link:

Accelerator mailing list

BVSC (Birmingham Voluntary Service Council) is excited to announce the launch of its Fast Track Accelerator Programme, set to commence on 25 February and run through to 31 March 2025.

This innovative programme, supported by United by 2022 - the Commonwealth Games Legacy Charity - is designed to empower individuals working in the Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector.

The Business Development Accelerator Programme offers a condensed curriculum focused on securing funding, developing new business, and income generation. Participants will benefit from workshops, mentor sessions, and networking opportunities, all tailored to enhance their business development skills. Key subjects covered include:

Developing your Value Proposition
How to find and apply for contracts and grants
Networking skills
Using data in funding applications
Developing relationships with corporate partners
Using AI in business development
And much more

Why is it needed?

BVSC understands from its work across the sector how increasingly difficult it is to access funding and sustain projects and services. We know from research that organisations investing in Business Development are over five times more likely to be successful with funding applications. BVSC is committing resources to improve the sector’s capacity to apply for and secure funding and is subsidising this pilot programme alongside United by 2022.

Who Is this for?

This programme is designed for participants working in organizations responsible for funding and business growth, who are looking to identify and apply for opportunities to sustain and grow their organisation.

Programme lead

The Programme is led by Tony Carr. Tony is the founder of 4front Partners, based in Birmingham. With over 20 years of experience in employment and skills, criminal justice, diversity and inclusion, Tony has worked across commercial, public, and third sector organizations. His expertise lies in business development, strategic planning, and securing new funding. Tony is passionate about quality public services and collaborates with charities, CICs, and other mission-focused organizations to help them excel in their fields. Through 4front Partners, Tony provides tailored support to clients, enhancing their reach and improving their business development, operations, and training. In the past years the team at 4front Partners have worked with hundreds of community organisations, social business and charities to increase their impact and solidify their organisational foundations.

Benefits of the programme

Participants will receive expert support to understand the components of an effective Business Development Strategy for their organisation, which they will then be supported to put into action. The programme includes:

Pre-programme support and introductory meeting (Digital)
A one-day induction and introduction to the programme (25th February - Venue TBC)
Weekly one-to-one progress meetings (Digital)
Mid-point review and access to expert-led seminars (date and Venue TBC)
Webinar on the benefits of AI in developing funding applications
Programme review (31st March – Venue TBC)

Why should you do it?

Previous course participants have found the course impactful and essential, with100% of previous participants recommending the course.

Previous participants said:

"The support from my mentor was invaluable, helping me stick with a complicated application process which ultimately led to success."

"Go for it, you will feel supported, confident in your approach to growing and developing new business, managing and writing bids."

"I have become more focused in finding opportunities that fit our values."

"It was so useful to me as a novice in bid writing!"

"The group approach was invaluable!"

Your commitment, costs and booking

The cost of the programme for participants is just £100 (plus VAT). This programme is offered at a significantly reduced rate, thanks to support from United by 2022 funding. Places can be booked and paid for online using the link below. If you wish to pay by invoice please email your details (name, organisation, email address and telephone number) to [email protected].

Applications for the Business Development Accelerator Programme are now open.

Interested individuals and organisations can apply online. The deadline for applications is 10 February 2025 but hurry as we expect a high level of interest and places are limited.

About BVSC

BVSC (Birmingham Voluntary Service Council) is a leading organisation dedicated to supporting and empowering the voluntary and community sector in Birmingham. Through a range of services and programmes, BVSC aims to enhance the capacity and sustainability of local organizations, fostering a stronger, more resilient community.

If you have any questions about this programme please email [email protected].

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