The evaluation of the programme found five key changes which contributed to its success: a shift in the vision, confidence and self-belief in the foundations, and in the engagement of their boards; the employment of specialist fund development staff and applying resources to staffing; developing personal links with donors; and a positive shift in the position of the foundation within its community.

 “We are very pleased that our grant investment of £1 million has been multiplied almost twenty-fold,” said Margaret Hyde, director, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. “The learning in this evaluation will be useful not only to other community foundations, but to all fundraising charities that seek to build their endowments.”

Stephen Hammersley, chief executive, Community Foundation Network added, "Perhaps the most significant point is the evidence from Time for Growth that a serious investment in the local philanthropic infrastructure can pay a very handsome dividend. This is a real win-win-win situation: donors achieve their objectives; community organisations are funded; and communities are strengthened."