Your Guide to Securing Trusts and Grants
Getting funds can be a game-changer for your organisation. Many groups rely on different sources, like gaming, community, corporate, government, and private family funders. While there’s no guarantee of success, you can boost your chances by understanding what you need, why you need it, how it will help, and where to apply.
Key Information Funders Need
Funders usually ask for similar details about your organisation. To save time, keep these documents handy:
– Certificate of Incorporation
– Rules/Constitution
– Proof of registration with Charities Services
– Bank account proof
– Latest financial report (audited if possible)
– Current budget
– Proof of donee status from Inland Revenue Dept (www.ird.govt.nz)
– IDs for two contact persons (passport or driver’s licence in colour)
Other useful documents include:
– Names of Board/Committee members
– Letters of support
– Photos of your work (with approval)
– Brochures, newsletters, event flyers
– Job descriptions and employment contracts (if applying for salaries)
– Lease agreement (if applying for office space)
– Signed agreements with contractors
– Quotes for items to purchase
Create an FAQ Document
A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document can be helpful.
Include:
– Organisation’s contact information
– Online passwords for funders
– Contact details for two application contacts
– Board/Committee members’ names
– GST and NZ Business numbers
– Incorporation and registration details
– Bank details
– Social media stats
– Work statistics (clients, ages, locations, services provided)
– Partner organisations
– Referees’ contact information
Simplifying Funding Requests
Make it easy for your team with a simple funding request form.
Include:
– Project/Item/Event title
– Amount requested (GST exclusive)
– Deadline for funding
– Event/activity date and location
– Quotes and deposit info
– Beneficiaries
– Reasons for need
– Expected outcomes
Share Impact Stories
Stories showing your organisation’s impact are powerful. Use a simple form to gather:
– Date
– Client/Service User/Volunteer name
– Permission to share (yes/no)
– Sharing conditions (e.g., initials only, no photo)
Asking the Right Questions
When gathering testimonials, ask:
– How did you find out about us?
– How long have you been involved?
– Which programs/services have you used?
– How has our service helped you and your family?
– How is your life now?
– Any additional comments?
Completing Application Forms
Follow these steps to complete application forms:
- Read the instructions and check eligibility.
- Know what they won’t fund to avoid wasting time.
- Draft answers before submitting online.
- Be clear and concise, avoiding jargon.
- Ensure all questions are answered.
- Attach additional information if possible.
- Double-check everything before submission.
Show Your Impact
Explain clearly why your organisation needs funding:
– Describe your services/programs and their benefits.
– Include statistics (e.g., “60% of recipients…”).
– Provide real numbers (clients served, food parcels given, meetings held).
– Add comments/feedback from clients and community agencies.
Follow the Rules
– Respect funders’ requests for attachments.
– Answer all questions directly—avoid saying “see attached.”
– Be clear and avoid acronyms or internal jargon.
– Double-check your application before submission.
– Keep a copy for your records.
Remember, securing funds is a process. With preparation and attention to detail, you can increase your chances of success.
Good luck!