University knowledge may prove to be a salvation for the third sector

There is no doubt that the third sector is going through difficult times. Resources are often limited and demands are constantly increasing.

Nonprofits, especially smaller ones, often face an uphill battle in a variety of areas, including data management, volunteer recruitment and retention, and digital marketing. There is also a growing need for robust cybersecurity measures – an area that remains elusive for many in the industry.

However, there is one avenue of support that, in my experience, is too often overlooked: the higher education sector.

At the University of Wrexham, we recognize the key role that academic knowledge and resources can play in empowering not-for-profit organizations. Our enterprise team, which includes dedicated business development specialists working alongside our colleagues in academia, actively engages with third sector organizations to tailor support to their very different needs.

One immediate pressure for nonprofits is the growing need for evidence-based results to satisfy funders. This requires significant investment in data collection and analysis – a daunting prospect for entities that are already incredibly thin. This is where our university can step in, offering fully funded training and workshops designed to build skills in effectively managing and using data.

Digital marketing – another critical area – often falls by the wayside due to lack of skills and resources. Thanks to our university’s programs, organizations can gain access to specialized digital marketing workshops and even temporarily employ an academic on their team to configure and improve online marketing strategies. Such initiatives not only strengthen direct marketing efforts, but also create the foundation for lasting digital engagement.

The third sector’s vulnerability to cyber threats is another issue that is too important to ignore. To address this issue, we offer workshops focused on cybersecurity, equipping organizations with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect their digital landscape.

Additionally, we understand the importance of strategic planning, particularly in volunteer management and grant applications. Our offering includes short courses and workshops led by experts who can provide insight into effective strategy planning and execution, ensuring that third sector organizations prioritize and invest their efforts wisely.

A particularly successful example of our collaboration is with Nico Zamblera, a graduate currently working at Llangollen Railway. Funded by the university, Nico’s project not only improved the organization’s sustainability practices, but also brought a fresh perspective to its digital marketing strategy.

Third sector organizations in Flintshire, Denbighshire and Wrexham looking to take advantage of such opportunities are invited to an upcoming networking event.

Scheduled for Wednesday, July 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., this session will provide a platform to connect with colleagues and experts, fostering collaboration across county and sector boundaries. And yes, breakfast is included in the price.

If you are a nonprofit or social enterprise looking to develop new skills and strengthen your organization, we encourage you to join us. At the University of Wrexham, we are committed to bridging the gap between academia and the third sector, ensuring that together we can overcome challenges and turn them into opportunities for growth and impact.

For more information, please contact us [email protected]