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How to win funds

by Chris Gaine — last modified 2008-01-23 23:48

Ten top tips to help you win funds and influence funders.

  1. Match the criteria. Most grants are made available for specific types of group or project. Before you apply, make sure that your project/group fits the bill.
  2. Use your imagination. A project that is interesting and creative is more likely to win funds. Funders may say they are looking particularly for innovation and ‘replicability’. This means they want to fund projects which contribute to good practice that could be applied elsewhere.
  3. Meet the deadlines. Send your application in good time. If you get the grant, make sure you can do the work in the time expected by the funder, or they might ask for their money back! Claim funds on time – funders have budgets that must be spent each year.
  4. Keep the funder happy. Many grants come with conditions. Take them seriously. Most funders will want some acknowledgement of their support. Future grants may depend on it.
  5. Watch your cash flow. Some grants are only paid after you have done the work. If this is the case, make sure you can pay for the work up front, while waiting for the grant to come.
  6. Match the funds. You may have to match funds from other sources. Remember to include a valuation of gifts-in-kind and volunteer time.
  7. Fill in the form carefully. Read the form carefully. Answer the questions accurately and legibly. A well-presented application shows you care about what you are doing. Keep a copy.
  8. Include relevant further information. If you have further information (including pictures), ask yourself whether it is what the funder needs to know. If it is, then send it in too.
  9. Keep in touch. Funders need to know how your project is getting on. Some will want a formal report. In any case, send a letter of thanks updating them on progress.
  10. Before you do anything else: DO YOUR RESEARCH! An ill thought out application (to the wrong funders, at the wrong times, for the sorts of funding they cannot give) wastes time.

Thanks to Shell Better Britain Campaign for the above tips.
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