So you’ve been through the list of funders for your project and now have a stack of applications before you. What now? Here are some basic 'musts' for writing a successful funding application...

1. First: Pick your Battles

Save yourself a headache by really checking the criteria and discard those which don't fit the bill.  Often, applicants will lock in to chosen funders and attempt to crowbar their idea into the criteria, adding arms and legs just to tick the boxes.  Keep to the plan! Components 'thrown in' will stand out, and your plan will seem disjointed. Be brutal when shortlisting your potential funding sources and apply only for those which match well, and won't compromise your vision.

2. Charities Must Mean Business

In a time of budget cuts and Brexit fears, you must clearly demonstrate a sustainable business model.  Detailing how every penny is a prisoner by potential cost reducing elements - as well as generating income - will instil faith in the long-term viability of your idea. Your figures are the backbone of your application, so ensure that every element of your financial summary is backed up with well researched data on your marketplace, competition and importantly, potential barriers to growth... Make your figures add up.  You will be asked later to justify anomalies.

3. Weakness as a Strength

Often, people will downplay or downright ignore weaknesses in their plan for fear they will hamper their application.  Funders will see this as poor risk management. A scrupulously detailed risk register indicates to funders that your idea is well thought out, and will improve your score significantly. Don't underestimate the importance of your risk register.  Consider every eventuality and give solid solutions.  Funders need to know that investing in you is a good risk.

4. Brevity is Best

Every word you write must fit the criteria given, but it's easy to lose valuable word count in labouring points that you hold important.  Most applications have key sections under 300 words.  That's not a lot to work with! Be brave and compromise the flow of your writing in favour of relevant information.

5. Lose the Ego!

You will want to assure funders that their investment is in capable hands, but the idea itself should stand on its own merit. Keep your personal achievements and contributions in the 'Team Section' and leave your ego out of the equation. Be confident enough in your own skill set to be modest where it's needed.

6. Plain Speak...

Don't assume that funders will know the jargon that you commonly throw around the boardroom (or coffee shop).  Be clear and consistent, ensuring that your content speaks directly to your audience. If applications are not your forte, then considering hiring someone to write your application for you. Remember that this is a funder's first introduction to your idea. You've got one shot so make it count! Seem obvious? It's surprising how many funders reject applications for their lack of clear and relevant content.  The first application is always the hardest; once you have your ideas down clearly, you can use it as a source template for other funding sources. Good luck!