Tips for making a good funding application

Are you ready to apply?

• Have you got a constitution and a management committee?
• Do you have key policies, procedures and insurance in place?
• Are your accounts up to date?
• Have you submitted any outstanding reports to previous funders?
• Do you have the permissions needed to undertake your project for example permission from your landlord for alterations to a building?

What are you applying for?

• What beneficiary needs are you meeting?
• What outcomes and activities will you deliver?
• Who will run things, and do they have the required skills and experience?
• What do you want to spend the funders’ money on?
• When will your activity take place? Will the funder decide in time? Most funders will not fund something that has already happened.

Can you make a convincing case for support?

• What is the challenge?
• Who is needed and why?
• What do those in need want? Are your beneficiaries involved in developing your ideas?
• Why is this the solution the one to back and why is your group best placed to do it?

Can you provide evidence of need?

• Do you have credible data research?
• Evidence of unmet need?
• Letters of support?

Is your budget realistic and offering value for money?

• Does it add up correctly?

Find potential funders

• Who might fund your activity?
• Is it a good match for their stated priorities?
• Will they fund the items you are asking for?
• Will the timing of their decisions work for your project?