Top tips for newcomers to England Big Advice
In this, the next in the series of regular updates for would-be grant holders, Karen Addison from the Big Advice team shares her top tips for getting started on your search for funding…
I haven’t done this before, how do I get started?
This is one of our most popular questions! The best place to start is our website UK & England funding finder will identify the most appropriate grant for your group and provide an application form with guidance, to get you started.
We are not a charity does that mean we can’t apply for lottery funding?
You don’t have to be a registered charity to apply for funding. You do need to be set up as an organisation with social aims before you can apply. All your group needs is a committee (with at least three unrelated people), a governing document (such as a constitution), and a bank account (with two unrelated people who can sign for it).
I don’t know where to start! Which funding programme is the one for us?
If you have a project idea, the first question to consider is will it cost under or over £10,000? There are two ongoing funding streams that are open with no closing date:
- Awards for All England offers small grants of between £300 and £10,000 www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/global-content/programmes/england/awards-for-all-england
- Reaching Communities England offers larger grants to projects costing over £10,000. If you need funding for land or buildings projects costing over £100,000 look at the Reaching Communities buildings strand
www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/global-content/programmes/england/reaching-communities-england
What are outcomes?
Outcomes are how we need you to describe the changes that your project can make to the lives of the people who use it. Outcomes are not the activities or services that your project provides. You will need to use outcomes to tell us about the impact you will make with the funding if you are awarded it.
Is there any other help available?
The website and our online resources can help you understand the funding process and how to apply to it. Split into easy to access links they can help you plan a successful project and create a stronger application www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/funding/funding-guidance/applying-for-funding
Sign up for our England e-bulletin to keep up to date with Big Lottery Fund news and receive announcements of new funding opportunities on the website www.biglotteryfund.org.uk
The National Lottery Community Fund Blog 
Re. Top tips to Newcomers to Big Advice Blog: Might be an idea to provide a link to NAVCA with instructions on how to find your local CVS who can help set your group up with a suitable constitution (if you don’t already have one) & advise on effective committees etc.?
Hi… sorry I missed your comment, when you first posted it.
If you have any concerns about the eligibility of your group, it may be worthwhile speaking to a local funding advisor. Details can be found on the member’s directory page at the NAVCA (National Association for Voluntary and Community Action) website. They can help you plan your project and provide guidance about funding opportunities.
Also there are some useful model governing documents on the charity commission website http://www.charitycommission.gov.uk/detailed-guidance/registering.
I hope this is useful.