I am very pleased to announce a £120,000 fund to enable UK branches and international chapters to support local activities and events this year.
In recognition of the great work of RIBA branches and chapters, the RIBA Board has allocated £120,000 to the Local Initiative Fund (LIF) for the 2022 financial year. £90,000 will be allocated to support activity led by UK branches and £30,000 to support activity led by international chapters. This funding will enable our volunteers to organise and run events and activities that align with the themes and goals in our 2034 Masterplan.
If you’re part of a local branch or chapter, or have an idea for your local group, please take a look at this guidance note which outlines the qualifying criteria and details how to apply.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all members who volunteer their valuable time and energy to support the critical work of our local groups. Up and down the UK and across the world, volunteer members are engaging, inspiring, and supporting other architects, students, and those with an interest in the built environment. Connecting with a branch or chapter is often the first experience an architect has of the RIBA, and it’s often through these groups that our members build connections that last throughout their professional lives.
I’m also pleased to confirm that our new Nations & Regions Council Committee is now fully operational. The committee comprises elected members, including the VP Membership, all Regional Chairs in England, plus the RSAW President, the RSUA President, the RIAS President, and all four international council members (representing Middle East & Africa, Americas, Asia & Australasia, and Europe). It is a key new mechanism for RIBA Council to gather member insight to inform its strategic advice and guidance to the Board, and part of our governance overhaul.
In terms of next steps, I urge you to keep in touch with your local branch or chapter, attend a Regional Council meeting, or share your latest challenges or opportunities with your Regional Chair or local council member. The more insight we have, the more we can tailor our support to meet your needs.
Thank you.
Simon Allford, RIBA President
