Writing the Application
After planning what you want to apply for you need to use these details to help you fill in the application to the funder.  Many funders now how standard application forms but some ask you to just send in you application in the form of a letter with supporting information.

In either case, the process is likely to require fairly standard information - although the structure will vary.  The following information should help when planning your application: 

A description of your organisation 
If you have a mission statement or aims and principle you may want to use these but build on them to show how this is applied to your work.

State the nature of your organisation, if it is a charity or company include the charity and company number

Be clear about what you are asking for 
State exactly what you are asking for.  This may be salary costs for a project worker, computer equipment or publicity materials

Say why the project is important
Funders receive lots of applications, usually more than they can fund, your project needs to stand out, be enthusiastic about the difference your project will make

What will happen if the project is not funded
Describe the impact on the community and service users if the project does not go ahead.  This will help paint a picture of the project and its importance.

How much money is needed?
This can be very difficult.  It is essential to get the balance right.  Don't under estimate what the project will actually cost.  If you get funding but fail to deliver because you do not have enough resources, this will not help with future applications and can be very demoralising for everyone involved.  Likewise, whilst it is important to base your bid on full cost recovery, you must also be able to demonstrate good value for money.  When working out costings make sure you discuss the costings with colleagues or a funding adviser to check that you have the balance right.

Have a funding strategy
It is always worth targeting more than one funder and it is important that you are aware about how long it will take to make a decision.  Some funders, eg the Lottery or government grants can take well over 6 months before you get a decision.  If you are relying on one source of funding, a failed application could delay your project considerably.

Who else is contributing or supporting the project?
People like to feel they are contributing to something that someone else they respect also thinks is worthwhile. State the appeal target and amount raised so far. If appropriate mention specific large grants or sources of funds promised. For example, we have already received a grant from the Parish Council or note local fundraising events. Don’t forget the contribution made by volunteers and other in kind contributions

Understand what the funder is looking for
Regardless of how important the project is to you, it is important that the application relates to the priorities of the funder.  For example, Awards for All will not fund salaries so an application to them for a project worker will not succeed if that is what your application is about.

Don't write a book
Funders are very busy and will receive thousands of applications every year.  Make their task easy by being concise about what you want.  Don't assume they have any knowledge about your organisation or the importance of the work that you do.  It sometimes helps to write everything you want to include and then try to summarise it in bullet points ensuring every word of the final document counts.

Keep in Touch
If you are successful in your application, there is still work to do.  Make sure you write and thank them and again mention the difference the funding will make.  Keep the funders informed about the progress of the project, key achievements etc - this helps build useful networks for future.