Thinking of applying for funding? To give yourself the best chance of success, make sure you’ve ticked off this checklist first. 

Have you researched your funder?

Have you properly researched your potential funder? Do you know their funding criteria and priorities, their values, their theory of change? Do you know if there are any particular things they want to see in a funding application, and how they measure value? Can you explain where your work fits with their strategic priorities?

Have you researched your market?

Do you know where your charity fits within your causal and geographical area? What other charities are doing similar work to you? Have you approached them to see if there are any activities you can collaborate on? The more you can do work with other people, the cheaper and more economical it will likely be for you. And while you should never sacrifice quality, funders will want to see that your approach is efficient and cost-effective. 

Are you clear on your outcomes? 

Funders will want to hear about the difference your charity will make. Who will your activity help, how many, and where? If the activity you're seeking for isn’t going to yield a simple, immediate solution, how can you prove your work is sustainable? Make sure you have a robust business plan. Think about what questions the funder is likely to ask and be prepared to answer them.

Can you prove it?

Can you provide evidence that shows your activities are effective? Hard data - such as the number of beneficiaries helped - can be complemented by beneficiary case studies, and you can back up your theory of change with research/literature.

Can you measure it?

Do you have a comprehensive monitoring/evaluation system in place? How will you capture the impact of the activity you seek funding for? Funders will want to see that you are able to assess the effectiveness of your programme, and identify any areas that need improving. They will also want to see that your impact measurement is consistent, and your data collection accurate.

Can you deliver it?

Does your charity/team have a proven track record? How can you show you’re the right charity to carry out these activities, and why the people within the charity are the right people? If you’re a new charity, you’ll need to show why you’re needed right now, and that your plans and expectations are realistic. Carrying out a few smaller projects before approaching funders will help build your experience, evidence base and profile. 

Jenny Ramage is editor of The Fundraiser.