The latest update on our digital hub

Foundation Scotland had a very busy summer launching the new digital hub, which offers real-time access to funding information and impact.

We knew some of our systems and processes could be more efficient, and the exceptionally high volumes of grantmaking throughout the pandemic highlighted inefficiencies even further. We conducted a thorough review of our technical processes, including grantmaking, donations and other areas for improvement such as email volumes and paper usage.

Over the summer, work began on upgrading our systems. This has included our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software which will improve our daily work for both the Foundation team and our stakeholders. To date, we have launched a number of online portals offering donors and fund applicants instant access to their accounts and log-ins for panel members involved in fund assessment.

All of this work will allow for greater access to funding at the touch of a button, 24/7 and in real-time.  The impact of all the funds and grants will be more visible, too, and as a result, the impact every penny is making in communities will be illustrated. We are extremely grateful to everyone who continues to work hard to make this a reality. We thank everyone for being so patient and supportive as we make these positive changes.

Foundation Scotland will ensure that everyone impacted by this upgrade will be fully supported during this transition. We'll be developing some resources to help you navigate the new system. In the meantime, we're focussing on training our team at Foundation Scotland. It's new to us too, so please bear with us!

Here's a summary of some of the new features that are part of our upgrade:

For grant applicants

• Making an online application will be even easier. Online application forms will take less time to complete, and all related documentation can be uploaded too.
• Applicants will be able to track the progress of their application online, including any feedback and decisions made on their application.
• Applications for social investment will be available online for the first time. 
• Applicants' details and documents will be securely saved automatically, i.e. there's no need to resubmit core details and documents if reapplying for any funds.
• Active grantees will be able to do all their grant reporting online.

For our donors

• Fundholders will have complete visibility of their fund, including details of any grants made or donations added to their accounts, just like any bank account.
• Donors can make transactions online, including topping up their funds.
• A fund's history, including whose been supported in the past is also accessible. 
• Every fund's impact will be visible using our new reports on key measurables such as health, wellbeing and education, plus your fund's alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For fund panels and assessors    

• 24/7 access to a dedicated secure portal for more efficient information sharing, including applications, documentation and meeting minutes to support decision making.