Finance Forum

Planning Ahead - Funding Insight, AI in Practice and Budgeting

In a challenging funding environment, financial planning is no longer just about setting a budget—it’s about making informed decisions, preparing for uncertainty, and clearly demonstrating your organisation’s financial position.

This session will focus on practical ways to plan ahead, including budgeting to prepare for different funding outcomes, hearing what funders look for, and using AI in applications.

We are delighted to welcome Kerry McFarlane from The Robertson Trust, who will share insights into:

· how funders use annual accounts and financial information when assessing applications

· what builds confidence in an organisation’s financial position

· common issues where budgets, accounts and narrative don’t align

We are also delighted to welcome Elodie Mergeai - Funding Officer, Central Scotland, the National Lottery Community Fund, who will present on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in funding applications, considering:

· where AI tools can support drafting and structuring applications

· potential risks, including accuracy and consistency

There will also be a peer discussion exercise using scenario to assist understanding and learning on budgeting, decision making and funding applications.

Who should attend

This session is suitable for:

· Charity finance leads and managers

· Voluntary Sector Company Directors

· charity trustees

· Anyone involved in budgeting, financial planning or funding applications