Creation and Development of National Lottery Heritage Fund Business Modules

Tender description

MGS invites tenders for the creation and development of bespoke themed business modules which provide an opportunity for trustees, senior managers, and future leaders within the heritage workforce in Scotland (including museums, historic buildings and greenspaces) to access best practice, guidance, and practical tools and templates. It is expected that these modules will be established as digital ‘self-learning’ resources accessible to all, but MGS invites recommendations on alternatives in terms of copy, format and delivery. The intention is to create a legacy of knowledge and resources to support the wider sector beyond the project delivery period. The contractor will work with MGS to create modules covering the following two themes: Governance The content of this module will be designed to support trustees to understand their responsibilities, to define their roles, and to work more strategically to embrace business opportunities. This module will include guidance on good practice around sustainable board development, fundraising and recruitment. Business Planning The content of this module will be designed to support learners to embrace the opportunities that come from running their heritage organisations as businesses and give participants the skills to approach challenges strategically. This module must include elements of forward- and business planning, including exploring and mitigating risk, understanding VAT, and balancing social and economic missions. The modules created as part of this project will serve as a legacy to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) Business Support Programme ‘Surviving to Thriving’ delivered in 2021/22 and 2023. That programme, developed by MGS, Built Environment Forum Scotland (BEFS), and greenspace scotland, was designed to address identified skills gaps within the sector and to support heritage organisations in Scotland to develop sustainable business models. As the 2021/22 Business Support Programme was delivered entirely remotely under COVID-19 regulations, part of the original budget remains unused, and MGS has received approval from NLHF to repurpose this to benefit the wider heritage sector. The successful contractor will work with MGS to design, create, develop and review business modules covering the key areas of Governance and Business Planning, with up-to-date content tailored specifically to the unique challenges and opportunities of the Scottish heritage sector. The modules will serve as an ongoing resource to support the sector and must stand the test of time. As the modules’ content will require to be reviewed on a regular basis and updated in line with changing legislations and best practice, the successful contractor is expected to work with MGS to develop recommendations on an appropriate review process. The successful contractor is also expected to contribute to recommendations on the delivery and promotion of these modules to the sector (expected to be launched late 2023/early 2024), taking into consideration target audience, accessibility, and different learning preferences. MGS particularly welcomes tenders from individuals and organisations that demonstrate the following: An understanding of the heritage sector in Scotland, and its challenges, and who will adopt an innovative and creative approach to supporting the needs of the heritage organisations taking part; Knowledge and understanding of diversity issues and experience of working with a diverse range of participants; Sound project management skills, with a demonstrable capacity to deliver positive results within tight deadlines over a challenging geographical area, while liaising with a range of stakeholders; Excellent collaborative, team working and communication skills; Capability and commitment to fully engage in all aspects of the evaluation process with MGS staff and our external evaluation provider; A demonstrable understanding of the Third Sector and the particular issues relating to governance, business planning and leadership which may be applicable within a wide range of Third Sector organisations.