Supporting Inclusive Growth through the Third Sector

Third sector business model change and its impact – two case studies of third sector organisations delivering ‘inclusive economies initiatives’ in the East and West Midlands

1. Identify the implications of the recent changes in the external environment (e.g. austerity) for VCS organisations involved in delivering ‘inclusive growth’ initiatives – in particular neighbourhood regeneration.
2. What models or examples of business model development are taking place in voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations undertaking delivery of such initiatives, during a period of ‘austerity’, in the East and West Midlands?
3. From the perspectives of practitioners and service users/beneficiaries, what are the impacts of such business model development on delivery, and the experiences of service users?

This research aims to provide in-depth evidence about how some third sector organisations are developing their business operating models over time, in an austere climate, in order to sustain their mission and continue to deliver ‘inclusive growth’ initiatives for the benefit of their communities. It aims to generate new knowledge and deliver impact for third sector organisations, local authorities, policymakers, academia and the broader public.

Findings of the research are intended to be shared with third sector organisations, local authority representatives, community representatives, policymakers and academic networks via a knowledge exchange event, articles in academic journals and with research funding bodies.