Ask the Expert - Charity Excellence Framework

The Charity Excellence Framework is a completely free, one‑stop resource for the VCFSE sector. It brings together funders, guidance, data, and practical tools in one place, alongside a wide range of advice and resources to support charities and community organisations.

We are delighted to welcome Ian McLintock, founder of the Charity Excellence Framework, for an informative session where he will share insights into how the platform can be used to its full potential. Ian will offer practical tips, hints, and expert guidance to help organisations make the most of the framework.

Ian has been a passionate volunteer for nearly 50 years and has held senior leadership roles for three decades, including various chair and CEO appointments. He is the founder of Charity Excellence, which he designed, built, and funded himself. Launched in 2018 and now a charity, it’s a free one stop shop supporting every type of non-profit. It also hosts the sector’s Big Data. In 2022, he introduced its first AI service, followed by others, including the sector’s first AI Bid writer in 2023, and additional new tools, guides, and training through the AI Ready programme and, in 2025, its Learning Management System with 11 non-profit AI courses, supporting the charity’s aim of catalysing AI adoption across the sector. Charity Excellence has more than 50,000 members making it the largest UK charity community. All of its services are free. For those who value them, Ian holds an MSc in Corporate Management and various other professional qualifications.