Tips on applying for Funding
ADVICE FOR MAKING A FUNDING APPLICATION
It is crucial that your organisation is clear about its funding requirements before making an application. To increase the chances of your funding application being successful read the guidance below which provides some advice as to what to think about when considering sourcing funding.
1. The Funder - It is a good idea to find out as much information about a funder before making an application. It is a waste of both yours and the funders time if you submit an application but do not meet the funding criteria. So, ask yourself....
• Does your organisation meet the criteria of the funder providing the grant?
• How much does the funder offer for each grant?
• Does the grant available meet with your organisations requirements?
• What does the funder use to assess applications? - Usually this will be an application form so can your organisation provide all the information required in this form?
• When is the deadline for applications and is there enough time to thoroughly meet the next deadline?
2. Reasons for your Application - Funding organisations receive a large number of applications and therefore it is crucial that your application clearly outlines why you require a grant.
• What evidence do you have that funding is required?
• Can you explain in detail what the funding will be used for?
• Do you have detailed facts and figures to demonstrate the demand for the funding?
• Can you clearly demonstrate what benefits the funding will make? e.g. how many people will benefit and in what ways? Ensure that your application highlights the difference the funding will make to the local community.
3. Top Tip
Ensure that you have costed out your project and can explain exactly what the funding will be used for. If you can source funding from other organisations this may be favourable for your application. Finding other organisations or local clubs that a joint funding application can be made with will make the application look more impressive.
4. Finally…
• Ask somebody to proof read the application before it is sent
• Consider including a covering letter with your application
• Double check all the supporting documents have been included in your application
• .....And, take copies of your application for your records
For further information on funding please contact joby@teambedsandluton.co.uk / 01582 813763
LOCAL FUNDING ADVICE
The organisations below provide extensive funding advice and resources for community and voluntary groups. To access this information click on the links to each organisation below. The following is just some of the advice you will find on offer:
- Fundraising Tool Kit
- Fundraising Strategy
- Making a Funding Application
- Fundraising Workshops
- Sources of Funding
- Raising your Own Funds
COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTARY SERVICE MID AND NORTH BEDS
VOLUNTARY AND COMMUNITY ACTION SOUTH BEDFORDSHIRE
