Funding Tips

• Always verify to see if an invitation to apply (either a form, letter or telephone conversation with the grant officer) is required before setting out.
• Read the bid documents - the more you understand the background and purpose behind the bidding round, the better you will be able to "target" the bid.
• Think about how much you want to ask for to deliver your project, think budget.
• Work out realistic figures but add on a 10% contingency to allow for movement in expenditure.
• Be realistic - do not exaggerate what can be achieved.
• Think like a scorer - put yourself in the place of the person assessing the bid. Get a copy of the scoring criteria if possible.
• Review the bid - ask someone (a critical friend) not involved with the bid preparation process to read it through.
• Ask for help - the funding bodies themselves are often prepared to offer help for potential bidders.