In today’s funding climate, voluntary and community organisations are under increasing pressure to demonstrate strong financial planning and accountability. Whether you’re applying for grants, managing restricted funds, or delivering complex projects, having a clear, well-structured budget is essential. This training will give you the tools and confidence to build realistic budgets, understand full cost recovery, and manage your project finances effectively—helping your organisation stay sustainable and funder-ready.

Aims of the Session:

• Increase your skills and knowledge in developing budgets for your projects.
• Support your organisation to manage project finances effectively and make informed funding decisions.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the session, participants will understand:

• The principles of setting a budget, including limiting factors, types of budgets, and key budget headings.
• The full cost recovery model, including allocation and apportionment.
• Unit costing, break-even analysis, and how to prepare a cashflow forecast.
• The importance of monitoring and managing a budget throughout the project lifecycle.

Topics Covered:

• Budget setting principles
• Limiting factors and types of budgets
• Key budget headings
• Full cost recovery: allocation & apportionment
• Unit costing & break-even analysis
• Cashflow forecasting
• Budget monitoring and financial control

Based on the National Occupational Standards for Management & Leadership.