1. What makes a good application Glenn Austin 28 June 2013

2. Mission statement: ‘Bringing improvements to communities and the lives of people most in need’

4. Outcomes funder What we want to achieve with our funding You must be able to demonstrate how your project meets at least one of our four programme outcomes Outcome 1 People having better chances in life, with better access to training and development to improve their life skills Outcome 2 Stronger communities, with more active citizens, working together to tackle their problems Outcome 3 Improved rural and urban environments, which communities are better able to access and enjoy Outcome 4 Healthier and more active people and communities

5. Understanding the Funding Environment Demand-led programmes: Chances of Success Awards for All (small grants) Overall success rate in the SE 51% currently increasing at 55% Reaching Communities (large grants) Stage 1 Overall success rate in the SE 42% currently decreasing at 31% Stage 2 Overall success rate in the SE 31% currently increasing at 60%

6. Common Mistakes Awards for All Not understanding what Awards for All can fund Applications incomplete on first submission Not returning requested documents at conditional offer stage. Reaching Communities Outcomes unlikely to be achieved

7. Common Reject Reasons Outside programme remit - apply for things we do not fund (more suited to another lottery distributor) Insufficient evidence of need Unclear outcomes, or does not make link between project’s outcomes and programme outcomes

8. Why do you need to evidence need? High demand for limited resources Prove your project will make a difference Prove that you haven’t presumed what the community needs Prove that your project is the best way of addressing the need identified – what are the alternatives? Prove that you understand the community and their needs Don’t assume that readers (funders and partners) will automatically see there is a need. It is up to you to convince them.

9. Make sure that your application links together Issue Need Beneficiaries Activities Budget Outcome

11. The “wow” factor “Singularity of focus – doing 1 or 2 things that really make a difference rather than solving world poverty and hunger” “A new approach and innovation – happy to take risk if planned benefit is clear”

12. Making the best application: Hints and tips We are always happy to talk to you about potential projects at an early stage – call or email Big Advice. Read the guidance! Use the application form help notes. Keep your answers simple, clear, specific and consistent. Act on any feedback BIG has given you. Remember to budget for everything i.e. inflation, auditors, evaluation costs, full cost recovery. Don’t rush – plan carefully. It might take longer than you think to set up your project. Proofread your form or ask someone else to read it; talk through what you’ve written. Use the form’s checklist.

13. W here to find out more www.biglotteryfund.org.uk Big Advice Line: 0845 4 10 20 30 Textphone: 0845 6 02 16 59 Email: enquiries@biglotteryfund.org.uk enquiries@biglotteryfund.org.uk