Putting the Fun in Funding - Game of Thrones Style

Anita and Jordan Setting up in Westeros

Who says information sessions are dull? Certainly not Jordan Laverty, our CDO for the South Area, who arranged an event for Housing Community Network (HCN) groups at Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge, better known as the home of the Game of Thrones Studios!

Working alongside our partners in the Housing Executive, Jordan and our Funding & Social Value Officer, Anita Doonan, facilitated an engaging and practical session for local community groups.

The day started with presentations from several funders, including the Housing Executive’s Community Cohesion and Community Involvement Grants, Housing for All, the Community Relations Council and the ABC Council.

Speakers shared information about opportunities available to community groups across the area and offered helpful tips on applying for the funds, along with examples of past successful projects.

Anita Doonan acted as compere for the event and also took the opportunity to give an overview of Supporting Communities’ Funding Support Service, highlighting the practical resources on offer, including access to Grantfinder and our popular monthly funding bulletins, which can help groups find the right funder for their specific needs. Groups were encouraged to make full use of the training and advice available through this service.

A Scary Funder - just kidding!

Following the presentations, a lively Q&A session gave attendees the chance to put their questions directly to funders - always one of the most valuable parts of any event like this. Groups had plenty to ask, and the conversation continued during a networking session that allowed people to connect with fellow community representatives from across the South Area.

And then came the highlight many had been looking forward to, a delicious meal and a tour of the studios where some of the world's most exciting television was brought to life. From towering giants to fire-breathing dragons, the props and sets did not disappoint!

A huge thank you to all the funders who gave their time, to the Housing Executive for their partnership, and of course to everyone who attended and made the day so enjoyable. We look forward to building on the connections made.


Interested in funding support?

The Supporting Communities Funding Support Service offers free access to Grantfinder, monthly funding bulletins, regular funding clinics, training and tailored advice for community groups. Get in touch to learn how we can help your group find funding success!