Training Outline

Funding and Fundraising for
Community and Voluntary Groups

latest update 5 February 2008
(site usually updated Thursdays)

Course Outline

Session 1: Introduction to fundraising

An overview of different sources of funding - public donations, charitable trusts and foundations, the National Lottery, Statutory funds, Companies and earned income. The session looks at the different ways these funds operate and analyses the pros and cons of getting funding from different sources. Before you can decide which sources are best for your organisation, however, you need to be clear about what it is you want to fundraise for, so we look at project planning next before returning to look at different sources in session 3.

Session 2: Planning and preparation for fundraising

This session picks up planning issues from last time. There is a lot more to successful fundraising than applying for grants. To make sure your group gets the right funding at the right time, you need to plan well ahead. This session goes through the stages in developing a fundraising strategy or plan and looks at the work you need to do before you can approach a funder.

Session 3: Sources of funding

A more detailed look at different sources of funding and how to find out about them. How do you decide which sources and which funders will meet your needs best? How do you go about approaching them? This session includes practical exercises in selecting the right funder.

Session 4: Applying for funding part 1

What are funders looking for? How do you sell your group? This session introduces criteria, guidelines and application forms from funders and gives you the chance to start writing an application 'for real'.

Session 5: Applying for funding part 2

This session continues the work on writing funding applications. There will be the opportunity to get individual feedback on any applications you are developing on the course. If you prefer, you can spend time developing a Funding Strategy for your group. Tutors will be available at the end of the session to give guidance on your portfolio.

Session 6: Financial planning for fundraising

What do things cost? What about hidden costs? This session covers how to draw up a budget and cost a project for a funding application, and includes practical exercises.

Session 7: Evaluation and monitoring

This session looks at understanding what evaluation and monitoring are, how they relate to your group, and how you can make sure you meet funders' requirements for monitoring and evaluation.

Session 8: Portfolio building/evidence gathering

A session giving additional support in putting portfolios together for accreditation, and making sure all worksheets are completed, The session also incorporates a course review and provides the opportunity for you to identify what further resources, support and information you need.

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