Funding readiness checklist

Your starting point

1. Governance and legal status

Funders need confidence that you are properly constituted and accountable.

0 of 5 complete

• Your legal structure is clear and appropriate for the funderFor example, limited company, charity, CIC, partnership or sole trader.
• Governing documents, articles or constitution are up to date
• You have a dedicated organisation bank account in the correct name
• Relevant policies are in placeTypically safeguarding, equality, data protection, health and safety and environmental.
• A board, committee or senior person has authorised the application

2. Financial readiness

Funders usually ask for recent accounts, forecasts and a clear project budget.

0 of 5 complete

• Annual accounts and management information are up to dateMany funders ask for accounts from the last one to three years.
• You have a cash flow forecast that includes the grant period
• Every project cost is listed, justified and eligibleSeparate the grant-funded costs from any match or in-kind contribution.
• You have quotes or estimates for major costs
• You understand how you will manage cash flow if payment is in arrears

3. Project clarity

A strong application explains exactly what will change and for whom.

0 of 5 complete

• You can list the concrete deliverables or outputsFor example, events run, people trained, equipment bought, hours delivered.
• You can describe the difference the project will makeWho will benefit, and what will be better as a result?
• You have a realistic start date, end date and milestones
• The activity is eligible under the funder's rulesCheck location, sector, organisation size, project type and restrictions.
• The project is distinct from your normal running costs

4. Evidence and need

Funders want proof that the project is needed and that you are the right organisation to deliver it.

0 of 5 complete

• You have evidence of demand from beneficiaries or customersSurveys, enquiries, waiting lists, sales data or consultation notes.
• You can show a track record of delivering similar workCase studies, testimonials, monitoring data or previous project reports.
• You have letters or emails of support from partners or beneficiaries
• You can define who will benefit and how manyBe specific about geography, characteristics and numbers where possible.
• The project fits the funder's stated priorities and area

5. Delivery capacity

A funded project needs someone with the time and authority to make it happen.

0 of 5 complete

• A named person will lead the project and report on progress
• The team has enough time alongside normal workInclude staff, volunteers, trustees or contractors who will be involved.
• You have the skills needed, or a plan to access them
• You have identified risks and how to reduce them
• You have a contingency plan for delays or shortfalls

6. Match funding and partners

Many grants require you to contribute money, time or resources of your own.

0 of 4 complete

• Match funding is identified and confirmed in writing where requiredCheck the percentage and what counts as match: cash, in-kind, staff time or income foregone.
• Any partner organisations are agreed and have confirmed their role
• In-kind contributions are valued and documented
• You have a simple partnership or collaboration agreement where needed

7. Reporting and evaluation

Funders need to know how you will measure and show what was achieved.

0 of 4 complete

• You have measurable indicators for outputs and outcomes
• You know how you will collect data during the projectForms, registers, surveys, photos, attendance records or sales data.
• You understand the reporting schedule and what evidence is required
• You have a plan to capture learning and share it with stakeholders

Gaps to close and next steps

Tick every item above, then record the three most important gaps to close before you apply.