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Making the application

Read the whole application first and list what is required.

If you wish, photocopy the application form for your rough copy. There is no need to type the form so long as your handwriting is clear. Black pen is better for photocopying than blue.

If there is no application form, include the following:

contact person • the group’s aims and background • legal status • the project details including time frame •

and budget audited accounts. •

State clearly what you are applying for, the amount requested and how the project fits the funder’s criteria.

Common difficulties

Some applicants have difficulty describing the project briefly. Focus on what the money will be spent on.

One applicant described their project:

“To enhance a good working relationship with school and community, as well as providing a more natural holistic approach to our environment using natural materials and involving science and technological ideas with a hands on approach. Other purposes are to incorporate a low maintenance area and a much more pleasant view.”

What was the project? “To develop a garden in front of the school”

Some applicants struggle to describe the project’s benefits. Be clear and realistic. Simply tell us what you want, why you want it and why it is important. For example:

“The training courses will provide skilled volunteers to befriend and teach English to new migrants. Speaking English is vital in order for newcomers to be able to communicate, participate and settle here.”

If you are having trouble with this, ask someone outside the organisation for help.

Major projects: most funders would expect some contact before the application arrives in the mail, and will advise the applicants what information is needed. This may include a business plan, needs analysis, plans and quotes etc.

New organisations without a track record have to work much harder for initial funding. Funders look for credible people within new organisations as well as evidence of need, sound planning and the potential of the project. Funding for new organisations is likely to be modest.

If you need more space than the application form allows, include an additional sheet but also answer the questions on the form. Otherwise, funders have to sift through the attachments to find what they need to know.

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