All corners of the media are scrutinising David Cameron's "Big Society", from every conceivable angle. While the concept has caught the public's imagination, the greater challenge of fleshing out what the Big Society will actually offer and require of communities is unfinished business. The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) understands well that many of the principles underpinning the Big Society are positive and provide real opportunities for voluntary and community organisations (VCOs) and the communities they work with. However, NCVO is also too aware that success hinges on ensuring that VCOs have the resources and support they need to play their part to the full. Feedback from NCVO members and the wider sector suggests that cuts from the public purse are already having a worrying impact on VCOs. In this article, the author points out that VCOs must be properly funded and supported if they are to play their critical role in realising the Big Society vision.