Top Tips for Grant Applications

What do funders look for in a good application?

Trevor Smale - Grant Manager, South West

Why do we say “No”?

• Not enough money

- have a plan if rejected

• Poor fit

• Timing

- plan the bid well

- stand out

What gets in the way?

• Knowledge

• Time

• Lack of relevant skills

• Too ‘close’

Examples of what funders look for in a well run organisation?

• Good governance• Good support for staff and volunteer development• Well run finances• Match funding secure• Good service & business planning• Understanding of the needs of people using their

services • Understanding the impact their services have on

their users

Hints and Tips for successful applications

• Does your funding need fit with the funder’s criteria and priorities. Not all funders are the right funder for everyone – ‘horses for courses’

• Do you know there is a need for this service? How?

• Plan a proper timetable and budget• Think about what changes and benefits will it

achieve for users? Can you define these in a SMART way? How will you measure impact?

What is ‘SMART’?

Hard-to-reach clients will learn how to engage with others and with other services.

By the end of the project in 2015 twenty disabled individuals will gain employment or be placed in a training scheme.

Hints and Tips for successful applications

• Be clear about why you want funding. Is there any flexibility in this?

• Ask someone to check your application before you submit it

• Make the most of any assessment visit by being prepared and thinking about questions before the meeting.

• Consider how many different sources you might need to try to secure the funding you need

Hints and Tips for successful applications

• Use available resources e.g. your local CVS• Network locally and with other groups in your

sector • Build an evidence base • Involve your users• Be realistic• Demonstrate the passion

Appeal to the heart!

• Why should I fund you?