Unfortunately, most funders do not fund ongoing running costs, preferring to put their money into specific ‘projects', (i.e., an activity within a specific time frame, with a set purpose, that can demonstrate one or more outcomes). To enable not only your stakeholders but also your funders to know instantly what your project is about, choose a title for your project that is clear and self-explanatory (e.g. Computers for Carers).

The best projects are usually small but have a direct, measurable impact which can be considered a success. The most important things are that you are addressing a proven need and that your aims and objectives are clear and realistic. A project that is achievable, useful and focussed indicates to funders that it has been well-planned and organised.

Make sure you maintain sight of your project plan and your original aims, as this will increase your chances of success. Be sure you and your colleagues remain clear about your goals, especially:

• why is your project important? and,
• how will you specifically use the money to achieve your aims? (What costs/funds will your organisation contribute?)

Designate someone to co-ordinate the project and ensure that everyone knows who this is. Also:

• make sure you and your colleagues are clear about who is co-ordinating the project and the funding applications;
• if certain tasks need to be delegated, be certain this is done before the planning process gets underway, as this could slow things down and waste time.

Remember that funders are more interested in who will benefit from your project (learners, community, employers etc) than the needs of your consortium or organisation. Demonstrating these benefits is vital, and can be done in a variety of ways, the best being:

• Be specific – avoid vague statements and be as specific as possible about why your project is needed at this time.
• Explain – use plain language to explain who will directly benefit and how from your project.
• Statistics – use surveys, census, council records or any statistics in your area (including reference, where appropriate, to the local LSC's Strategic Plans) to help prove your project is needed.

Work out a breakdown of the costs and be realistic. People sometimes think that by asking for less they have a better chance of being successful. But, if the budget does not match the aims, it just looks like it's not costed properly. Equally, do not inflate the budget artificially. Experienced grant assessors can always spot over budgeting. If your organisation does not have a financial officer or a dedicated treasurer, it may be a good idea to seek financial advice.Your figures and cost breakdowns must be accurate (e.g. if it is for larger sums over a period of two to three years it will have to account for inflation).

The funder will need to feel confident that your organisation can competently manage the project and the funds.You will have to prove this in your application or letter. One way of doing this is by setting up a clear monitoring and evaluation system.

Describe in detail how the project will be evaluated when it comes to an end. Some projects will be easier to evaluate than others.

• How will you show what you have accomplished? For example, if your goal is a renewed sense of well-being in a community, try using anecdotal evidence, such as case studies.

Most funders will want to see a clear exit strategy as they will not want to continue funding you indefinitely and will want to know that you can
survive once their funding has ended. State clearly what you will do once the initial project and funding comes to an end (i.e. Is the project sustainable? Will you look for funding elsewhere?).

Allow yourself plenty of time for writing a funding application, especially if working with other organisations. Make a note of the deadline for submissions and the ‘turnaround time' as these can vary greatly between funders (e.g. monthly, twice yearly, etc.). If you are planning a big project and are applying for a larger sum of money, allow for 6-9 months.

What if you only get part of the funds bid for? Try to structure the project in such a way that reduced funding allows part or parts of the proposal to be accomplished.