We spoke to a number of leading funding organisations to get their insight on the best project proposals they receive…
“A thoughtful and honest application always stands out in the crowd! Tell us clearly what the problem is, and how your project will do something about it. Give us relevant facts and figures, please don’t use jargon, and don’t be vague. You don’t need to promise the moon, just tell them what you can realistically achieve”.
“Your budget should show that you’ve done your homework and you know what things cost”.
“A thoughtful and honest application isn’t a hurried and last minute dash to meet our deadlines with something dreamt up overnight. It is a serious and sincere attempt by your organisation to use its experience and skill to make a positive difference where it is needed.”
“As most charities will know, the usual reason for grant applications being declined is the limited budget available. It is simply the case that funders receive grant requests far in excess of their budgets. Over the years, I have seen applications become stronger than ever.”
“Try to understand the funders’ strategy objectively, to determine if your work falls in line with its aims. If it does, the better chance your application has”
“Consider that your answers to every question on the application form are likely to be scored to ensure fairness and objectivity. Ask someone not familiar with your work to read the application for you to check it makes sense and that each answer is a strong one.”
“Funders would love to be in a position whereby all worthy applications were accepted and their pot of money was endless, but sadly this isn’t the reality. The best advice for fundraisers is to research which is the right funder for your work and then create a high calibre and clear application.”
“Check the financial accounts you are submitting (or ask someone who knows about finance to do this for you). Do your reserves appear unusually large or your accounts show any negativity which could appear risky? If so, include a note to explain why. Don’t hope these areas may be missed or not reviewed carefully.”
Have you received any feedback from grantmakers? What did they advice you to do differently? Let us know in the comments section
