Rochdale Funding Coaching Programme

Following the success of our first two cohorts, we’re excited to announce the return of the Rochdale Funding Coaching Programme!

We’re now inviting 10 more organisations to join our 6-week programme, which provides hands-on support for groups looking to develop the skills and confidence needed to successfully apply to large national funding pots.

“I gained the most from Session 4 - Funding and Finance because it completely changed my approach to writing budgets within funding applications. Now, I can do it with more confidence, and I’ve started getting better results.”

Delivered by VCFSE funding and development specialist, Dave Packwood, the Rochdale Funding Coaching Programme will offer six 2.5 hour coaching sessions, delivered every two weeks, as well as ongoing support outside of the sessions.

“Dave led the course with a great wealth of experience and insight, imparting golden nuggets of knowledge.  His enthusiastic and energetic delivery made the course compelling and very worthwhile.” 

This programme has been funded by Rochdale Borough Council’s Public Health team to support local organisations to apply for larger pots of external funding, strengthening their long-term sustainability in the face of increasing financial challenges.

Who can Apply:

This programme is ideal for organisations that - 

  • Are looking to approach larger funding sources
  • Have previously received a larger pot of funding which is coming to an end
  • Are facing challenges such as resource constraints, funding issues and operational gaps
  • Would like to expand their bid writing skills in-house
  • Would like to better understand the current funding market
  • Would like to explore how to effectively share their impact and how to use this insight to write more meaningful bids
  • Are based in or deliver the majority of their work in Rochdale and are a member of Action Together
  • Can commit to attending all sessions and participating fully in the programme (dates listed below) 

Topics Covered:

  • Introduction to funding and bid planning
  • Assessing bid suitability and application framework
  • Application tips and pitfalls
  • Budgets and finance
  • Evidencing impact and outcomes
  • Social value and added value

Delivery Format:

Cohort of 10 people, with one representative only per organisation.

We expect this representative to be a Senior Leader within your organisation i.e. the person who has a good overview of financial records, and is responsible for business development.

Timing, dates and location:

Seven half-day sessions, 10am to 1pm.
In-person delivery at a central Rochdale location (to be confirmed following programme acceptance)

  • Tuesday 28 April 2026
  • Tuesday 12 May 2026
  • Tuesday 26 May 2026
  • Tuesday 9 June 2026
  • Tuesday 23 June 2026
  • Tuesday 7 July 2026
  • Tuesday 21 July 2026

How to apply

To apply for the Rochdale Funding Coaching Programme please complete the online form using the link below. Your application will be reviewed by a selection panel, and shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further information.

Application Deadline: Tuesday 14 April 2026
Shortlisting: w/c Monday 20 April 2026

For more information, or any questions about the programme,
please contact us at: trish.cartner@actiontogether.org.uk