TFN Herts raised over £13,000 for four outstanding local charities at its second ‘Dragon’s Den’ style event on Thursday 8th June, and we at ActOne Artsbase were lucky enough to be a part of it!

Generously hosted at the spectacular Rothamsted Conference Centre in Harpenden, the event built on a successful launch in St Albans last September to expand across the county.

As the nation cast their votes, the guests at TFN Herts also had tough decisions to make, because all four pitches from local charities CHIPS, Resolve, The Gifts and ActOne ArtsBase were so moving and impressive (although many supported more than one cause).  More than 80 local residents and businesses attended, to watch the charities pitch for funding, ask questions, and generously pledge their support in a live crowdfunding session.

Local resident Richard Sved organised the event with a group of local volunteers, national charity The Funding Network, and generous support from local businesses Debenhams Ottaway, Grant Thornton, Kingston Smith and The Rothamsted Conference Centre.

Commenting on the event, Richard Sved said: “I felt very emotional to have delivered another successful event, with 4 top-notch pitches and a whole lot of love and generosity in the room.  We’re delighted to have expanded the reach of TFN across Hertfordshire, and are already looking forward to helping more great causes at our next event.”

Jennie, one of the guests, described it as “An incredible event.  In one evening, Herts TFN introduced me to four local organisations making positive social change and the amazing people behind them.  I can’t wait to see what they go on to achieve next.”

ActOne ArtsBase were also thrilled with the event, saying: “We were so privileged to be part of such a wonderful evening.  In current times where it’s so hard for small charities to survive, let alone develop, this event was such a boost to us all.”

Any post-event donations are welcomed by the four charities via the main Funding Network website: https://live.protectedpayments.net/pm3API/asp/PMWeb1?charityRef=1088315&campaignRef=116