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• Top Tips

1.    Plan ahead

Allow yourself plenty of time to write a funding application. Make a note of the deadlines for submissions (1^st Sept, 1^st Dec, 1^st March) and think carefully about the ‘turnaround time’. Read the guidelines and don’t be afraid to give Girls on the Move a call to ask for advice on planning your project or filling in the application form.

2.    Be clear

Make sure you make it clear who you are aiming the project at. Do the participants fall into one of the priority target groups? What are the activity levels of the young people at the moment? How will the funding help break down the barriers to physical activity?

3.    Involve young people

Consultation is crucial. Involving young people in the fundraising process will develop their ownership of the project and ensure that what is applied for meets their needs. Make sure you document this consultation process and make this clear on the application form.

4.    Activity choice

Girls on the Move is much more likely to fund projects that look at developing skills and enthusiasm in 1 or 2 activities. A programme of taster sessions in one-off activities does not encourage sustainability. Make sure the activities chosen are affordable and accessible in the local community should participants want to continue doing the activity after the project has finished.

5.    Project costs

Don’t over or under estimate the costs involved and do your research.  Funders appreciate realistic budgeting. Don’t be tempted to apply up to the 2K limit if you don’t need the full amount. Make note of any in kind costs (eg staff or venue costs) on your application form. Make sure you don’t add these in kind costs into the total amount applied for.

6.    Monitor and evaluate

Set up a clear monitoring and evaluation system. Describe in detail how the project will gather evidence of its impact.

7.    Exit strategy

Girls on the Move cannot continue funding a project indefinitely! State clearly what you will do once the initial funding comes to an end. It may be a good idea to programme in a ‘progression routes’ session towards the end of a project to look at how participants can continue doing physical activity after the project ends (eg by accessing community classes or further fundraising). Ideally, we are looking for long term impact with short term funding.

8.    Final touches

Ask someone else not connected with the project to read your application through to check that it makes sense and that you have explained everything clearly. Make a copy before you send it off! Applications can be posted to Youth Scotland or emailed to girls@youthscotland.org.uk