Igniting change in the impact economy

What if the part of our sector – our economy, that is designed for good, the charities, funders, social enterprises, and investors who work every day for people and planet – were recognised as a unified force?  

That’s the focus of this year’s NPC Ignites. Our annual event spotlights the impact economy, bringing together over 100 leaders from across the sector to explore how collaboration can drive long-term investment for change. It’s the opposite of trickle-down economics – instead of waiting for benefits to slowly seep through, it’s about turning the funding taps on and directing resources to where they’re needed most- empowering communities, strengthening services, and improving lives.  

Political momentum is also gathering, marked by the UK Government’s recent appointment of the first ever Minister for the Impact Economy – a big step towards driving further growth in this mission driven sector. 

 We map our collective effort to do good with money, time and talent. 

In our morning session, NPC’s new Chief Executive, Jonathan Simmons, will outline a blueprint for growing and strengthening the impact economy, focusing on how evidence and investment can influence policy in Westminster and drive change for communities.  

 We bring together three pillars of the impact economy: funders, investors, and charities. Our Triple Threat morning panel features Kieron Boyle (CEO, 100ximpact), Gemma Peters (Chief Executive, Macmillan), and Kate Symondson (Head of Philanthropy at The Symondson Foundation) to showcase how challenging existing funding models can direct millions to where the need is greatest. 

We move to technology. 

Tom Ilube (Chair, The King’s Trust and entrepreneur) will help cut through the hype to unpack AI’s real potential and provide insights for a sector and leaders looking to mitigate threats and harness opportunities in an ever-changing digital landscape. 

 We turn to proof and power. 

With our keynote, Polly Neate, former Chief Executive of Shelter. You’ll hear hard-won insights on what’s broken in the current policy and funding systems which envelop the impact economy.  

We prepare for new charity reporting requirements. 

Hear from Charity Commission CEO, David Holdsworth, ahead of the forthcoming Statement of Recommended Practice guidance. Leave with a takeaway of actionable steps to make the new impact reporting requirement credible for funders, the regulator and the public.  

So, what if the part of our economy designed for good were recognised as a unified force? 

NPC Ignites is a space where we continue to explore that possibility together. It’s where people from across the impact economy come not just to talk, but to listen, learn, and act. To challenge outdated systems, unlock new funding, harness technology, and shape policy that better reflects our shared values. 

We don’t have all the answers, but we believe in the power of collaboration to find them. 

Join us, and help build the momentum for a more connected, more effective, and more recognised impact economy.