If you’re planning to apply for funding, being organised from the start can make the process much easier. Having key information ready and understanding what funders look for can save time and strengthen your application.

Funding application checklist

Before you apply for funding, make a list of information you'll need when completing applications, including:

• your group or charity's details
• names of trustees or key contacts
• your constitution or governing document
• safeguarding policy
• equality and diversity policy
• bank details
• recent annual accounts if you have them
• testimonials or case studies

Funding application tracker

You should keep a record of all the funders you apply to, create a spreadsheet so you can:

• see all of your applications in one place
• track the outcomes of your applications
• plan when to apply again
• build a list of funders that match your work

Research and find potential funders

You can use the BCP 4 Community website to:

• find funders that match the type of work your group does
• prioritise funders by deadline, grant amount, what projects they have funded before and how well they match with your priorities
• find more information about funders including eligibility criteria, what type of projects they fund and the amount they can fund

You can also sign up to be a "good cause" with the BH Coastal lottery.

Getting your application ready

Before you apply for funding, you should contact each funder to check your project is suitable.

Write your application in line with the funder's priorities and make sure you have information ready such as:

• how many people use your service
• financial accounts
• policies such as safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity
• case studies, testimonials or research that shows the need for your project

Make sure you prepare your case for support including:

• project scope
• need for funding
• expected impact
• impact statistics or evidence
• measurable outcomes and reporting plans
• a clear budget breakdown

When you're ready to submit your application, make sure you:

• check everything carefully and ask someone else to review it
• send all required documents
• submit before the deadline
• follow up to confirm the funder has received your application
• record the submission and expected response date in your tracker

If your application is successful

If you get a grant, you should:

• thank your funder
• review the grant terms and conditions
• check what financial reporting and monitoring is required
• record deadlines, milestones and branding requirements

Monitoring your progress

You should collect information that shows what difference your project is making. This can include:

• photos or videos
• testimonials or feedback
• case studies
• data on outcomes and participation

Build relationships with funders

Good stewardship helps funders feel valued and connected to your work. You can:

• send personalised thank‑you messages
• share updates, photos, videos or case studies
• invite funders to events or project visits
• offer meetings before the end of the grant
• share new projects they may want to support
• acknowledge support publicly on websites, social media or newsletters
• send seasonal or anniversary thank‑you messages

Apply again

Make a note of when you applied and when you can apply again. Staying in contact with funders increases the chance of repeat support. If you were unsuccessful, you can still apply again in the future.