Grant fundraising
help identify any gaps. Ask them to apply a ‘funder’s eye’ when assessing your proposal. Are they convinced that your project is needed? Do they know what difference you are going to make? Do they have any questions about the project or your ability to deliver? And, ultimately, would they give you the funding?
6 7 Have you provided
all documentation? In addition to the grant application, funders will
usually ask to see some supporting documentation. The grant guidelines should provide you with a list of what to include. Typically, you will need to provide financial information such as a summary of the current school budget and a copy of your latest completed accounts. You may also need to send copies of quotations, project plans, and partnership agreements if you are working with other organisations.
Do you have other
documents to send? Some funders – but not all – will give you the option of
sending supporting documents to be reviewed alongside your application. This is a great opportunity to reinforce the case you make in the application
with valuable examples of need and support for your project: photographs, essays or drawings produced by pupils, testimonials, diagrams, school council minutes, results of surveys or focus groups, etc.
8
Have you checked submission and
deadline details? Finally, before you submit
your application, have you checked the funder’s preference for submission? This might be by email, post, or digital upload. Make sure that you have attached or enclosed the application and all documents before clicking ‘submit’ or ‘send’. Send postal applications by registered post so that you get confirmation of receipt.
AT-A-GLANCE CHECKLIST
Re-read the guidelines and
make a list of the key criteria Review your application –
have you met the essential requirements?
Verify that your application
sets out a clear purpose Have you answered the
‘so what?’ question? Check all statements for
evidence and explanation Include a detailed budget Ask someone to check
your application Include all mandatory
documentation Attach supporting
Rachel Gordon runs the School Funding Service, which helps schools across the UK win grants for a wide range of projects, from playgrounds and sports equipment, to after-school clubs and extended services. She writes bids for schools and advises them on how to maximise their funding potential. For details, visit
schoolfundingservice.co.uk.
documents if possible
of submission and deadline Double-check that the
application and all documents are enclosed or attached before sending.
Coming next issue… The pros and cons of employing a bid-writing expert, and how to find the right supplier for your needs.
Find funding Search our online
database of grants for schools and read more expert guidance from Rachel Gordon at
funded.org.uk/ grants.
34 SPRING 2017 FundEd
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