Sam Holdsworth, Clowns Without Borders
Leading a small charity is amazing, but can be tough - I know, because I’ve done it.
With 20 years of hands-on experience in small charities, I’ve faced the same fires you’re putting out: the funding gaps, the governance headaches, the never-ending to-do list. That’s exactly why I created this course - to give you the tools I wish I’d had.
Lead your small charity with clarity, confidence, and less overwhelm.
Inside this course, you’ll find practical guidance, ready-to-use resources, and a designed structure that helps you work smarter - not harder.
Go at your own pace, dip in when you need it, and feel more in control of your leadership.
6 focused, practical modules you can complete any time
Downloadable templates and cheat sheets to save you hours
Real-world strategies that actually work in small, stretched teams
The confidence to make smart decisions and stop second-guessing
Neil Shashoua, Manager, Lloyds Bank Foundation
Build strong foundations from the start.
Recruit and support trustees and volunteers
Put the right systems in place
Set up good governance without the guesswork
Get clear on where you’re going and how you’ll get there.
Find your North Star
Use needs assessments & co-production
Map it all out with a simple Theory of Change
Confidently shape programmes that deliver real impact.
Plan strong, structured programmes
Use logical frameworks
Monitor and evaluate without drowning in data
Get your numbers working for you, not against you.
Build full-cost recovery budgets
Use stretch budgeting to guide your fundraising
Track your finances with confidence
Raise funds and tell your story with purpose and personality.
Build multi-income fundraising strategies
Nail your messaging and brand
Connect with the right audiences online
Small charity leadership can be tough - but it can be joyful.
Keep developing your charity (and yourself)
Manage the juggle
Prioritise wellbeing without guilt
Know where to turn for support
Joanne Manville, The Indispendary
I’ve spent 20 years in the small charity sector, leading through chaos, learning the hard way, and earning a Master’s in Charity Management (top 10% of my class).
I turned a charity in crisis into a multi-award-winning organisation that supported more people in one year than in the previous 20 combined.
Now I’ve distilled everything I’ve learned into this course - so you can skip the overwhelm and lead with confidence from day one.