Funding Checklist

Are You Fit For Funding? Do you...

Have a committee of unconnected people.
Have a bank account in the organization's name with the required signatories.
Work with a current and relevant governing document.
Adhere to required policies and procedures (e.g., safeguarding, environmental impact).

Choosing Funders and Making a Start

Ensure you have the time, inclination, and ability to write the bid.
Read and understand the criteria; ensure you are relevant for the fund.
Have someone review and provide feedback.
Ensure the funder is a good ethical and moral fit.
Ensure the required monitoring is achievable.

Forming the Project

Have a clear picture of your organization's tasks, mission, and purpose.
Ensure the activity is the main activity or a tool to engage service users.
Create an accurate, sensible, and clear budget.
Write an accurate description of the community/users and their needs.
Confirm the project is wanted by the target audience.
Identify the issues the project will address.
Address a need rather than just a want.
Consider all risks (SWOT/PEST analysis).

Writing, Reading, and Reviewing

Use application guidance notes.
Explain all acronyms and technical jargon.
Include only relevant information.
Ensure it makes sense when read aloud.
Stay within the word count.
Answer questions in the correct boxes.
Ensure activities/promises are honest and achievable.

Submitting Applications Online

Many funders now require online submissions.
Larger sums of money usually require more information.
Online submissions help funders collect and organize information.
Assistance is available if you struggle with IT or using a computer.

Save, Review, Save, Submit

Funders will explain the submission process.
You may need to create an account to access the application form.
You can save your application as you go, so you don't have to complete it all at once.
The process can be time-consuming, so give yourself plenty of time to review and check your application.

Uploading Relevant Documentation

Online applications allow you to upload supporting documents.
Ensure you have the correct file formats and sizes for uploads.
Avoid last-minute issues by preparing your documents in advance.