NICVA will lead the project in partnership with sister organisations in Scotland, Wales and England – SCVO, WCVA and NCVO – to bring together both experienced and emerging leaders from the voluntary and community sector. The programme will help them learn from one another, tackle shared challenges, and speak with a stronger, united voice.
NICVA Chief Executive Celine McStravick said the funding comes at a vital time for communities:
“This support will help us connect community leaders from across the UK who are working every day to make life better for people. “
The voluntary and community sector is facing big challenges – from funding pressures to the need for stronger partnerships. Civic Threads will help us share what works, build new relationships, and make sure the voices of those working on the ground are heard in the decisions that shape our communities.”
Through Civic Threads, NICVA will:
- Host a UK roundtable in Edinburgh where community leaders will come together to discuss fair funding and civic engagement.
- Create a practical toolkit to help organisations understand and use key UK and NI frameworks that affect how government works with the voluntary sector.
- Run a learning exchange in Cardiff to give emerging leaders the chance to build confidence, share skills and strengthen links with colleagues across the UK.
Celine McStravick added:
“This project is about connection – weaving together the experience, energy and ideas of people who care deeply about their communities. By learning from each other, we can build stronger, fairer societies in Northern Ireland and across the UK.”
About the Connect Fund
The Connect Fund, announced by the UK Government in October 2025, provides over £300,000 to support projects that build collaboration and civic participation across Northern Ireland and Great Britain.
