Page Contents
How to identify potential funders and write strong applications
Top tips on finding and bidding for funding
Securing a grant for your parish project can be hugely beneficial, especially if you are undertaking a big project which won’t be covered by fundraising or donations alone. Grants are available for a range of projects, whether that be church building works, setting up or continuing with a community-serving initiative, paying for a youth or community worker in the church, or something else entirely.
There are two types of grants available: unrestricted money, which can be spent in any way the church chooses, or restricted, which must be used on the specific project it was obtained for, e.g. a church building grant must be used on the proposed works outlined in the grant application.
Available Grants
- Church Building Grants are for urgent repair work to the church building. They can be used towards match funding for heritage grants or other major repair work. Grants are for a maximum of £20,000.
- Minor Repairs and Improvements Grants are for applications for projects that focus on urgent repairs, including ‘stitch in time’ projects (projects which, if completed now, will save money in the long term). Small scale improvements which are essential to sustaining worship and mission are also eligible. Applications for a maximum of £10,000 can be submitted.
- Council for Social Aid provides both small and large grants to help tackle poverty across the Manchester Diocese, with small grants up to £8,000, and large grants up to £30,000. Applications for both small and large grants are considered by a panel of Trustees, with large grant applications shortlisted, and the proposed project visited by a CSA Trustee.
- St Agnes Fund grants of up to £150 for people in dire need (i.e. for food, clothing, and essential household items). Grants are paid via the diocesan BACS system directly to parish accounts. Applications are only accepted from a parish for someone living within the boundary of that parish. To request a grant you must complete a short form providing the person's name, amount requested, brief details of what the grant is for and the parish making the grant application.
- Personal Grants for Clergy - clergy wishing to claim a grant to help with their personal circumstances should contact their Archdeacon.
- External Funding Opportunities - there are also plenty of external funding options and resources available, depending on your project's needs.
How to identify potential funders and write strong applications
When obtaining a grant, you will usually have to fill in an application form. You can find lots of useful tips for identifying and filling out an application below.
Here, Revd Dr Paul Monk provides an insight into the grant application writing process.
Top tips on finding and bidding for funding
- Pick the right grant - look at the funder's criteria and make sure your funding proposal meets this. Submitting applications which don't meet the criteria will likely lead to automatic rejection.
- Know your funding source - research the funding body and understand where they distribute their funds. The more you know, the more you will be able to demonstrate that you understand the organisation and its needs.
- Don't duplicate - funders are unlikely to give money to something that is already being done by others in your area. Demonstrate how your project is different.
- Use simple and concise language - make every word count. Be mindful of the word limit. Use positive language, review each answer and remove unnecessary words. Get someone not directly involved with the project to proofread the application to ensure it is clear and easy to understand.
- Wow your audience - demonstrate how your project will tackle an issue refreshingly and effectively.
- Identify local priorities - funders want evidence that you know your local priorities. Don't assume you know what the community needs; do your homework and do research through community audits, community consultation, and developing partnerships. Indicate how your project fits into the wider picture.
- Prepare an annual report/business plan - showcase your credibility and track record through an annual report or business plan.
- Communicate a clear vision - organisations with a clear vision tend to specialise in one area and can apply to the correct funding which aligns with this vision, making it more likely that funding will be awarded.
- Build relationships - develop effective networks with statutory agencies, and voluntary and community groups, letting them know what you have to offer and how you complement their services. Developing partnerships can enhance your organisation's credibility. Maintain relationships with funders, acknowledge grants awarded, comply with funding conditions and invite them to see the completed project.
- Good governance and financial accountability - demonstrate that your organisation is properly managed and has good accounting and governance structures in place that are robust and transparent.