Frequently asked questions

How do you find out about sources of funding for individuals?

Your local Careers Service, library or university is the best place to find this information as they hold a series of guides and books such as ‘Funding for Individuals’ that you can read at their premises.

In addition there's the UnLtd Millennium Awards. This is a grant programme for individuals who wish to put an idea that will benefit their community into action. This programme is run via an endowment fund administered by a new foundation called UnLtd.

The UnLtd Millennium Award scheme will make awards at two levels:

• Level One awards will provide funding and support up to a value of £5,000 for people just getting started on a project.
• Level Two awards, up to £15,000, will enable individuals with promising projects to expand and develop them.

For more information please contact UnLtd on 0845 850 1122 or visit the website at www.unltd.org.uk

Can we apply to two funders for the same project, and if we are successful with both what do we do?

Many voluntary organisations apply to more than one source for the same project in order to increase their chance of getting funded. Some funders will ask on their application froms if you've applied anywhere else, in which case you need to tell them so. If you're lucky enough to get funding from two sources for the same project, write to one asking if you can use the money towards something else. Very often, the funders will agree to this as long as it falls within their criteria. But in any case, you need to obtain their permission first.

Do we need to be a registered charity to apply for funding?

Not necessarily. There are small funds available from Community Foundations, City councils and health authorities for small groups that are not registered. The Community Fund, BBC Children in Need and Comic Relief also don't require you to be registered. Although some Charitable Trusts give grants to unregistered charities, most of them will only give to registered charities so you need to check with them first