Tips for Writing a Strong Funding Application

A strong funding application starts with a well-thought-out project plan. It is therefore useful to first work out the four basic steps. Once you have clearly formulated these steps, you can start writing your project plan. We have created a template for a project plan that you can use as a guide. The tips below can also help you further.

Tips

• Keep it short and concise: Avoid long, roundabout texts. Write clearly and in a structured way. Limit each section to the essentials: what do you want to do, why is it important, and how will you carry it out?
• Support your story with visual attachments: Add visual materials such as photos, floor plans, tables, or videos. This makes your plan more concrete and attractive.
• Use real-life examples: Case studies and previous results provide insight into your approach and show the impact of your work.
• Formulate SMART where possible: Goals and activities are best formulated in a SMART way: Specific, Measurable, Acceptable, Realistic, and Time-bound. This shows that your plan is feasible.
• Tell a clear and convincing story: Take the reader along in your vision, motivation, and approach. Make clear what you do, for whom, with whom, and what result you aim for. Keep in mind that someone may not know your initiative, so be clear and complete.
• Extra tip: always have your application proofread. A fresh perspective helps to check whether your application is clear, logically structured, and free of errors.
• Leave room for flexibility
  Your project does not need to be completely locked down. Indicate that you will evaluate along the way and adjust if necessary. Example: “We evaluate along the way whether we are still heading in the right direction and continue to align with the needs of the target group.”
• Add supporting attachments
  Think of visual materials, floor plans, tables, charts, or links to videos. Visual elements make your plan more concrete and attractive.
• Research the fund thoroughly
  Read the fund policy carefully. Use their language and ensure that your objectives align with those of the fund. Pay attention to general criteria and consider a project scan or telephone consultation in advance.
• Ensure a realistic budget
  Show that you have carefully considered the costs. Briefly explain your budget and also mention any other sources of funding.
• Show collaborations
  Mention partners or other stakeholders. This strengthens your application and demonstrates support.
• Start on time
  Good applications take time. Start well in advance so you have time to consult, adjust, and submit a complete application.

Tips from Sanne ten Bokkel Huinink (Fonds 1818)

During a webinar with Subsidiegezocht (November 25, 2024), Sanne gave a look into how funds assess applications. Her key advice:

• Clarity over perfection.

A spelling mistake is not a problem, as long as your application is clear and clearly shows why it fits the fund.

• Call in advance. Personal contact increases recognition and trust. The fund already knows something about your project before the application arrives.
• Use stories alongside numbers. Numbers are important, but a photo or short anecdote makes your application more human and convincing.
• Stay in touch after approval. Provide updates and stay connected. This way you build a lasting relationship and increase the chance of future support.
• Trust is crucial. Funds want to know that their money is well spent. Show that you are reliable and have honored previous agreements.

Need Help?

• A handy template for a project plan, which you can use as a follow-up to the steps mentioned above, can be found here.

• Take a Fundraising Training via VCA

Fundraising is a specialized skill. Finding the right fund, writing a strong application, and telling the right story is not always easy. A funding application requires a tailored and targeted approach. During the Fundraising Training via VCA, you will learn step by step how to:

• Find suitable funds for your initiative,
• Navigate the world of funds and subsidies,
• Get practical tips and tools for writing an application,
• And get started with your own project plan.

You will also receive feedback on your draft application. The training is specially developed for initiatives in Amsterdam and helps you get started with more knowledge, structure, and confidence.

You can find our current training and workshop offerings here.

• Contact a VCA advisor: VCA’s organizational advisors are available free of charge to think along with you. Make an appointment via: www.vca.nu/ons-team