Sutton's Guide to Grant / funding / Competition Applications
After finding the Grant that is appropriate for you it is essential to study what they do and don’t offer THEN ...
This is offered in light of my successes and failures - I would be interested in any other pointers you can offer.
- Read carefully what the Funder is asking.
- Make headings to cover all the required information.
- Think about key words and make sure they are back in your eventual reply - even if a similar term is used. Build up a little list of key words.
- Consider the tone of the Funder - some want it very business-like - some competitions more flowery - eye catching.
- ONLY THEN look at the information at hand to respond to these points - as long as there is room I would use headings at the start of paragraphs - that makes for easier readings.
- Remember most funders have tick boxes - if they can clearly see the answer they can tick the box and you might get through. TRY NOT TO REPEAT THE SAME INFORMATION IN MORE THAN ONE PLACE. If there is limited space allowed then be aware and adjust your style. Don’t be slow with a gentle name drop - people will be impressed that HRH came and planted plum tree. (Cardiff University and The National Botanical Garden of Wales are partners. Green Flag 2nd Prize Community Garden Cardiff in Bloom) or whatever influential connections you have - just drop them lightly in.
- The First paragraph would be really important - worth taking time to get it clear succinct but sound interesting.
- Save something for the end even if the funder does not say anything about the future plans and developments - it’s a good note to end on - looking to the future. With help with funding we will be able to.
- Really important: read over what you have written and ask at least one person to look over it.
- Check spelling, grammar and punctuation.
- CHECK that everything besides the description is attached - Accounts, photos etc.
- Bear in mind that IMAGES CAN HAVE A BIG IMPRESSION - SO WORTH CHOOSING CAREFULLY, gearing them to the kind of questions that were set.
- If I was applying for £1000 I would try to find at least £100 from discretionary - it always looks better gearing them to the kind of questions that were set. If you or others are also backing the project financially even if only a small percentage.
- If sent by Email mark it so that you know it has been received and read - or send through post as well.
This is offered in light of my successes and failures - I would be interested in any other pointers you can offer.