How to fund your film

The funder
Your application
Make sure you ...
Other funders
Before you post your application
If you are unsuccessful

Whilst VOMO can't normally provide funding we can help your project get off the ground in a variety of other ways:

• Support
• Training
• Filmbank equipment
• Advice on where to apply for funding

There are lots of places to consider applying for funding like local businesses, charitable trusts and donations but to ensure success it pays to do your homework. To help you we have included links to a selection of funders to the right of this page.

The following information will help when applying for funds.

The Funder
Find out as much information as you can about a funder before you apply. Don't waste time by applying to a fund where your project does not meet their criteria. Some funders prefer potential applicants to contact them to discuss ideas before sending in an application which can save you a lot of time and effort.

Ask yourself:

• Does my organisation meet the criteria of the grant provider?
• How much does the funder offer for each grant?
• Does the grant available meet my groups requirements?
• What does the funder use to assess applications? - Usually this will be an application form so can your organisation provide all the information required in this form?
• When is the deadline for applications and is there enough time to thoroughly meet the next deadline?

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Your Application

Some grant providers provide application forms where others prefer a letter. If you are have to write a letter, try to identify the person to whom the application should be sent. It's far better to personalise your letter rather than a general "Dear Sir or Madam". Standard letters sent to lots of funders are not a good idea as each funder is different so your letters need to be individual to reflect this.

If you are completing an application form make sure you answer every question. Its generally not a good idea to ask the funder to refer to attached papers as they usually have lots of applications to process and your added material might be overlooked. It's therefore important to answer questions clearly and accurately. If there is not much space to answer a certain question it will be because the funder is not looking for a long response. But do remember to submit any enclosures the funder has requested, such as annual accounts, constitution etc.

Make sure:

• You give a clear description of your group, its background, membership and achievements.
• Clearly show the needs your project is trying to meet and explain why it is important that these are met.
• Show what your solution is to address these needs and demonstrate that your organisation has, or can obtain, the necessary skills and expertise to deal with these needs.
• Tie this up with a detailed note of what the funding is exactly for in as much detail as you can. This information needs to be clear, concise, realistic and accurate - back this with quotations, costs, comparisons with similar projects.
• It's vital to include all your costs as you won't be able to amend your application after it has been sent.
• Explain what plans you have to raise the funding you need and state how much you hope to raise from each funder. This can include in-kind assistance too. For example, VOMO training and access to the Filmbank equipment.
• If applicable, explain how you hope to fund the project in the future.
• Provide information about any grants you have received and collect information on project achievements if you are looking for future funding.
• Give a contact number where you can be easily reached.

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Other Funders
It's often advantageous to show you've also secured funding and assistance from other means like donations, amounts from local businesses, other grant providers etc. Even if you have not managed to secure funds from other organisations it often looks better to demonstrate that you are casting your net far and wide. If you can source funding from other organisations this may be favourable for your application.

In addition, finding other like-minded organisations or local clubs where a joint funding application can be made often makes the application look more impressive.

Before you post your application

• Ask somebody to proof read the application before you send it.
• Consider including a covering letter with your application, a general introduction to your group on less than a page is best.
• Double check all the supporting documents have been included in your application.
• Make sure you take copies of your application and all your supporting documents for your records.

If you are unsuccessful
If your application is unsuccessful politely ask the funding organisation for some feedback, they are usually happy to do this. The information they supply will help you to perfect further applications in the future. The important thing to remember is not to give up. Successful funding applications often come with a little bit of experience.

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