Despite the best of intentions, creating targeted grant applications can be challenging given the often complex and varied eligibility criteria used by many grant-makers. From researching which grants to apply for, to ensuring eligibility, and crafting a compelling proposal, the grant application process can be very time and resource-intensive. That's why we've curated these 5 essential tips to guide you towards success:

Tip 1: Prepare and Plan Your Funding Needs

Before diving into grant research, take time to carefully plan what you need funding for. Consider whether you require support for core costs, a specific project, or perhaps an investment in infrastructure. Determine the funding amount needed and the timeline for its utilisation. Brevio's funding need builder can assist you in structuring your funding requirements effectively, before you even start to research potential funders. NCVO has some great advice on how to plan the funding that you need.

Tip 2: Leverage Smart Research with Brevio

Researching potential funders can be time-consuming, and navigating eligibility criteria can be a challenge. There is no need to sift through endless lists of grants anymore, as Brevio does the hard work for you. Brevio streamlines this process by continuously matching you to grants tailored to your specific needs. Our matching algorithms analyse your funding needs and present you with suitable grant opportunities. With personalised notifications, you'll stay up-to-date with new grants as they become available.

Tip 3: Scrutinise Grant Eligibility Criteria

Unfortunately, grant eligibility criteria are not published in a standardised way. So deciding which grants you may be eligible to apply for can be a daunting task. While some grant-makers are known for publishing clear, transparent, and easily comprehensible criteria, regrettably, many others are not. Brevio ensures that grant information is correct by regularly examining grants on our platform, making it easier for you to assess eligibility. Always pay close attention to factors such as focus area, beneficiaries, location, organisation type and income requirements to ensure you invest your time wisely in applications that are properly aligned with your organisation's mission and profile.

Tip 4: Be prepared for shortlisting and due diligence

Before applying, make sure your ‘house is in order’. Grant-makers will typically run eligibility and high-level due diligence checks on all applicants, then conduct more detailed checks on the smaller group they have taken forward for ‘shortlisting’. Being well-prepared with the necessary governing documents, financial accounts, regulatory filings, and an up-to-date online presence can make all the difference between a smooth process, and potential complications. Refer to our 'How to Prepare for Due Diligence Checks' blog for comprehensive guidance.

Tip 5: Craft an Outstanding Application

Prior to starting your application, really familiarise yourself with the grant-maker's specific requirements, including word limits and deadlines. Craft an application that stands out by addressing the grant-maker's funding strategy and aligning with their objectives. Utilise your funding needs on Brevio as the starting point for your detailed application, because this will include all the things that grant-makers typically want to know. For additional tips on writing a grant application, check out CAF’s user-friendly video content. And if you’re looking for a second set of eyes, Charity Digital offers an excellent article on harnessing AI for application support.

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By following these tips, you'll be better equipped to navigate the grant application process effectively and increase your chances of securing funding.

If you have additional tips or insights to share with fellow non-profit organisations, please don't hesitate to reach out. We value your input and are dedicated to supporting charities and non-profits in discovering funding opportunities. Together, we can make a positive difference in our communities.

Brevio is a not-for-profit, social enterprise and award-winning B corp that is dedicated to streamlining the UK charitable grant ecosystem, making it more efficient, accessible, and fulfilling for both grant-makers and applicants.

You can find out more on our services for charities and non-profits by visiting our How it works page.

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