The Q5 Foundation recently launched the first in its ‘In Good Company’ webinar series, exploring what’s really holding charitable organisations back from growth.
Led by Anna Fairhurst and Annabel Tonge, the session took the form of an energising virtual lunch & learn for the charitable sector. It focused on the practical steps charities need to take to achieve sustainable growth in 2026, using Q5’s Growth Effectiveness Framework. Alongside the insights, attendees had the opportunity to compare notes with peers and hear how others across the sector are responding to similar challenges. To receive news and invites to future webinars in the series, sign up here.
Growth must balance ambition with delivery capacity
Many organisations are clear on why they want to grow impact and income, but growth often stalls when the how is overlooked. Sustainable growth depends on alignment between mission, beneficiaries, funding, organisational capability and leadership mindset, not ambition alone.
External pressures are real, but internal focus is often the constraint
With fewer donors, rising demand, increasing costs and more competitive funding environments, the pressure on charities is intense. However, what most commonly holds organisations back is unclear prioritisation, overstretched service propositions, and under-investment in systems, skills and financial planning.
Long-term growth relies on organisation, culture and mindset
Sustained growth is enabled by having the right structures, skills and leadership behaviours in place. As organisations scale, leaders need to shift from delivery to direction, while protecting the culture and purpose that make the organisation effective in the first place.
Watch the webinar below.
