During the summer of 2009, Irene Evison was commissioned by CDF to write a book about community development approaches to grant making. What does this mean? Is it something special or is it just good practice?

With over 30 case studies and interviews to do, Irene was delighted to be able to bring in associate Natasha Roe from Red Pencil Projects to help with the research.

Based on CDF’s experience of administering numerous grant programmes on behalf of the Government, the book explores the meaning of a community development approach at every stage of the grant-making process: programme design; promotion, applications and assessment; delivery; monitoring; evaluation and sustainability.

The book is a practical guide drawing on case studies and experiences from local funders and funded groups, as well as insights from programme managers and civil servants who have commissioned funding programmes.

We hope that this book starts debate amongst practitioners and funder organisations, and in turn leads to increasing high quality in grant funding practice.

There are no plans for a book tour, but Irene would be delighted to discuss with you how to take forward ideas from the book. Do get in touch!

Available now in hard copy from CDF, the publication is entitled Funding communities, adding value and is priced £19.95, or is available as a free download from The CDF Webpage.