Whether your looking to apply as a single or in collaboration this is a real opportunity to expand your digital inclusion work.

Our grassroots organisations have been doing incredible work on extremely tight to little budget, then being asked to provide data and evidence to the level our large-scale strategic organisation provide. A big ask when the focus is on the doing.

This fund provides not only the opportunity to initiate new projects but to deliver at scale successful programmes previously limited by funding, infrastructure etc.  So why is this a valuable opportunity for the VSFS:

🌟 Why the DIIF Matters to VCFS Organisations

1. Tackling Digital Exclusion

VCFS groups often work with:

• Low-income households

• Older people

• Disabled individuals

• Unemployed and young people

The DIIF is designed to fund targeted interventions that address digital exclusion among these exact groups—making VCFS organisations ideal applicants.

2. Funding for Community-Led Innovation

The fund supports:

• Innovative projects that test new ideas or tools.

• Best practice replication, allowing successful local initiatives to scale or expand.

VCFS organisations can use this to:

• Launch new digital inclusion programs.

• Expand existing services to new areas or demographics.

• Develop and deliver at scale existing solutions.

3. Strengthening Local Impact

DIIF encourages projects that:

• Build confidence in digital skills.

• Break down barriers to accessing digital services.

• Tackle data and device poverty.

This aligns with the VCFS sector’s grassroots approach and deep, trusted community relationships, helping deliver long-lasting and sustainable impact beyond the funding period.

4. Support for Monitoring and Evaluation

The fund requires:

• Clear delivery milestones

• Effective evaluation plans

• Demonstration of value for money

Supporting VCFS organisations build stronger cases for future funding and improve strategic planning.

5. Empowering Social Cohesion

Projects can explore how digital inclusion:

• Enhances community engagement

• Improves access to financial services, employment, education, and healthcare

• Promotes safety and security online

So if your looking to develop a bid or collaborate with partners, not quite sure where to start or need some bid writing support, feel free to drop me a line rachel.edwards@atscale.co.uk