Preparing the Proposal - Applications - LIVING SPORT

Preparing the Proposal

Before you start

• Read the guidance notes several times to make sure you fully understand what they will fund and their eligibility criteria.  Don’t gloss over issues and hope to sort them out later.  If there is anything you don’t understand, clarify before you start.
• Does the time it will take to complete the application warrant the amount of funding you are requesting?
• Can you make a reasonable assessment whether your application is likely to be successful?  Are you sure the project fits the criteria well enough and the donor has a significant amount of overall funding to warrant an application.
• Are the claiming and monitoring requirements reasonable for the amount of funding you are requesting?

Which format do I use?

• Does the funder have an application form?  Make sure you complete every section of the form - don’t leave an answer blank and think it won’t matter.  Some application forms will only allow a certain number of words or characters which makes a big difference to the way you complete the application and what information you provide. Establish this before you start.  Some on line forms can be difficult to use so try using the form before you finally enter your details. Some donors will allow you to provide additional information.
• If there is no application form, it is likely the funder will have a specific structure they need you to follow.  Be clear what this is and be sure to follow it.
• Layout and presentation are crucial and your proposal must be easy to read and you must provide all the information funders request.
• What information or supporting documentation does the donor require? Eg: bank statements, constitution, budget, project plan.  Don’t leave this until the last minute – build it into your timetable.

Follow links on the left hand side for more guidance.

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