Dormant Assets NI: Final Evaluation of the Phase One Grant Programme

Introduction

This evaluation examines how the Dormant Assets NI Phase One Grant Programme supported the resilience, capacity building, and sustainability of the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in Northern Ireland.

It assesses results, delivery, and learning from the first phase of funding.

It’s intended for funders, policymakers, and VCSE organisations interested in capacity building, resilience and sustainability.

Findings

The evaluation found that Dormant Assets NI:

• supported organisations to strengthen capacity, address income diversification, and improve strategic planning.

• helped VCSE organisations operate more sustainably in a challenging funding and policy environment.

• enabled activities that contributed to increased organisational resilience and preparedness for future change

• gave funding that addressed resource gaps and supported long term development needs.

• offered learning relevant to funders, sector leaders, and organisations seeking to build stability