Funding organisations Funders Together and 360Giving are to merge.

They say the move, which takes place on 1 February, will create “a national cross-sector funding infrastructure body” and “is a natural step in our relationship”.

Both Funders Together, which includes London Funders, Collaboration Circle and the Place-Based Resource Hub, and 360Giving already work across a raft of funding sectors, including foundations, National Lottery distributors, businesses, local and central government, social investors and housing association.

They add that “by bringing our organisations together, we believe we can strengthen our collective impact – combining data, insight, research, networks and influence to better support civil society, improve funding practice, and contributing to policy and practice across the sector”.

James Banks will continue as chief executive of Funders Together, while 360Giving’s CEO Tania Cohen will take on the role of associate director. Her priorities will include supporting UK Grantmaking, the annual publication of grant funding that uses 360Giving data.

Services and programmes provided by 360Giving will continue following the move and funding for its work has been secured for three years. Also, London Funders will remain a dedicated platform and network for the capital.

360Giving staff will be integrated into Funders Together during the year. Two board members from 360Giving are joining the board for Funders Together.

Also other governance structures, such as the 360Giving Data Standard Stewardship Committee, will continue.

Funders Together and 360Giving add: “We would like to thank the Boards of Trustees of both 360Giving and Funders Together for the vision and oversight shown throughout this process so far. We would also like to thank the funders who have committed to continuing their support.”

“We are hugely excited about the next phase of the journey so that we can unlock greater impact across the sector and for the communities we serve.”

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