Step Three of Ten

Understand the Application Process

Understanding the application process is essential for submitting a complete and compelling fundraising proposal. Start by carefully reading the funder’s guidelines and instructions. These documents provide crucial information on what the funder expects in your application, including specific sections, required documentation, formatting, and submission procedures.

Pay close attention to the funder’s eligibility criteria and ensure your organisation meets all the requirements. This may include verifying your charitable status, geographic focus, and alignment with the funder’s priorities. Failing to meet these criteria can result in your application being dismissed before it is even reviewed.

Take note of all deadlines associated with the application process. This includes deadlines for letters of intent, full proposals, and any supplementary materials. Create a timeline for completing each part of the application well in advance of these deadlines to avoid any last-minute stress and errors.

Understand the funder’s review process and criteria for evaluating applications. Some funders may have specific scoring rubrics or prioritise certain aspects of the proposal, such as innovation, sustainability, or community impact. Knowing these criteria allows you to highlight the most important elements of your project in your application.

If possible, reach out to the funder with any questions or clarifications about the application process. Establishing a line of communication can also demonstrate your organisation’s professionalism and seriousness about the funding opportunity.

By thoroughly understanding the application process, you can ensure that your proposal is complete, compliant with guidelines, and tailored to the funder’s specific interests, increasing your chances of securing the funding.

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