Dormant Assets NI: Second Interim Evaluation of the Phase One Grant Programme

Introduction

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

It assessed delivery progress, emerging outcomes, and sector learning mid programme.

It’s intended for funders, policymakers, and VCSE organisations focused on long term development.

Findings

The evaluation found that Dormant Assets NI:

• enabled continued progress in delivering grant funded activities, though some organisations required extended timelines due to recruitment and capacity constraints funded activities, though some organisations required extended timelines due to recruitment and capacity constraints.

• supported organisations to diversify income, improve strategic planning, strengthen governance, and increase digital capacity

• led to operational improvements such as streamlined internal systems, freeing staff time and enabling new ways of working

• helped organisations generate new unrestricted income through sales, events, and membership models

• contributed to improved financial sustainability, planning confidence, and long-term preparedness