If you’ve ever applied for funding before, you’ll know how many questions you’re asked. If you haven’t applied for funding before – be prepared! But for all the questions a funder asks you, they really want to know 3 things:

Does this make sense?

Literally – Can they read it and do your statements make sense?
How well does the project fit within the funders criteria?
How well does the project fit with your own mission statement? Why would your organisation be involved in a project like this?
Why are you asking for money when you have plenty in the bank?

Is this project value for money?

How much if an impact will this project make in the community?
Who will directly benefit from the project and what are the ongoing benefits to the community as a whole?
Is this project meeting a genuine need in the community? Why is it a need – what’s changed to make it that way?
Will investing in this project save money in the long term?
Does the project have potential to be self-sustaining over time?

Can we trust this organisation to complete the project?

Have they accounted for their last grant completely and on-time?
Have they included an accurate and well-researched budget?
Do they have the skills and expertise to complete the project?
Do they have community support for this project?
Are they relying on income that has not been confirmed yet?
Have they secured some money from elsewhere already?
Do they have a ‘Plan B’?

As you go through your application form, keep in mind that this is what funders really want to know – and answer accordingly. Put your self in their shoes, and you’ll be surprised by the difference it makes.

‘What do funders really want to know’ is a part of the Sustainable Funding Workshop run by www.exult.co.nz. These workshops are run right throughout the country, so to find out when one is happening in your region email tracy@exult.co.nz

MISSED LAST MONTH'S ARTICLE?  Here's a recap....

Funding Information Service (FIS) is the prime provider of funding information in New Zealand. We are an independent, not for profit organisation that provides funding information to link fund seekers with funders.

To read the full article click here...