Funders want evidence, not enthusiasm
Donors, development agencies and climate funds receive many more proposals than they can support. The ones that succeed are usually the clearest, not the loudest. Here is what most funders look for.
What they usually ask
- Who are you? A registered organisation with a clear history and the people to deliver the work.
- What problem are you solving? One clear, local problem, such as flooding in an estate or high energy costs in a school.
- What will change? Measurable results, for example households protected, water saved or energy reduced.
- What have you done before? Real projects with real photographs, which is why showing completed work matters.
- What will it cost? A realistic, itemised budget that a quantity surveyor can stand behind.
- What happens next? A plan to look after the work after the grant ends.
Common mistakes
- Applying for funding that does not match your location or focus
- Vague goals with no numbers
- A budget that is a single lump sum
- Claiming work you have not done
A word of caution
Genuine funders never ask applicants to pay a fee to receive a grant. Read each funder’s eligibility rules before you apply.
If you would like to partner with us on a climate or resilient-building project, see our Partner With Us page or write to contact@autobillconst.com.
