CVS Inverclyde marks 30 years with conference focused on the future of the third sector
CVS Inverclyde will bring together organisations, volunteers, funders and partners from across Inverclyde this November for a conference marking 30 years of supporting the local third sector.
30 Years Strong: Shaping a Resilient, Collaborative and Future-Ready Third Sector will take place on Wednesday 4 November 2026 at the Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock. The conference will create space for practical discussion, shared learning and collaboration around the opportunities and challenges facing voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises.
The event will look beyond the organisation’s anniversary to consider what is needed to build a stronger, more sustainable and future-ready third sector for the next 30 years. Delegates will explore themes including sustainable funding, partnership working, volunteering and governance, community power, impact reporting, digital confidence and ethical AI adoption.
Charlene Elliott, Chief Executive Officer of CVS Inverclyde, said: “We are delighted to announce this conference as part of CVS Inverclyde’s 30-year anniversary and to bring together people and organisations who play an important role in communities across Inverclyde. At a time when organisations continue to face complex challenges and increasing demand, the themes of the day are especially important in helping the sector look ahead with confidence.”
The conference will be hosted by Rona Dougall, an experienced broadcaster, journalist and TV presenter best known as host of STV’s flagship current affairs programme, Scotland Tonight.
Keynote speakers will include Dr Jim McCormick, Chief Executive of The Robertson Trust, an independent grant-making charity working to prevent and reduce poverty and trauma in Scotland, and Jamie Cooke, Executive Director of Inclusion International, a global network working to advance the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
The programme will include panel discussions, breakout sessions and networking opportunities, and an interactive plenary designed to help shape a shared call to action for Inverclyde’s third sector.
The conference will also feature a special 30-year anniversary showcase, inviting delegates to reflect on the people, partnerships and community action that have shaped CVS Inverclyde.
The event is open to third sector organisations, public sector partners, funders and others with an interest in supporting community-led change in Inverclyde.
We anticipate this to be a highly attended event, so we recommend booking early to ensure organisations can attend their preferred sessions.
Event details
Date: Wednesday 4 November 2026
Venue: Beacon Arts Centre, Greenock
Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm
For more information or media enquiries, please email admin@cvsinverclyde.org.uk