10 Tips To Maximise Your Chances Of Success
If you have been accepted to apply for the Improving Farm Productivity Grant 2024, or are hoping to apply for the next round of funding, you might be wondering how to create an application that stands out and gets accepted. Follow our expert tips, and don’t hesitate to get in touch for personalised guidance.
Writing grant proposals can seem daunting. You must provide comprehensive information and present it clearly and compellingly. Thoughtfully putting your application together will ensure that it showcases your project in the best possible way.
Our tips for writing your grant application
1. Answer every question thoroughly
Make sure that you answer every question on the application comprehensively, it is important for the format of the application that you do not use phrases such as ‘see my previous answer’.
Each question is there for a reason and provides the grant evaluators with necessary information about your project and its potential impact. If a question does not apply to you, outline the reasons why.
2. Write clearly and concisely
Use clear, straightforward language to explain your project. Only use specialised terms and jargon when appropriate to specify your requirements. Familiarise yourself with the features that the evaluators are looking for and highlight how these are present in your project.
3. Stay consistent with your original proposal
Refer back to the farming productivity grant proposal you made to gain your approval to apply. Ensure that all information in your written application is consistent and builds upon the details you have already provided. If there have been any changes in your project, make sure you explain what they are and the reasons for them.
4. Find a proofreader
Ask someone who shares your industry knowledge and is not involved in the project to proofread your application before submission. Ideally, this person will also have previous grant writing experience. A second pair of eyes will make a significant difference to the quality of your application and help it stand out.
5. Ensure you have relevant planning permission and quotes
Include any necessary planning permissions and quotes from suppliers or contractors. This shows that your project is well-planned and feasible. If you have applied for planning permission and have not yet heard back from your local authority, keep all your correspondence logged so you can demonstrate this.
6. Provide a comprehensive funding overview
Detail all aspects of your project’s funding, including costs, potential savings, and financial benefits. A clear and comprehensive funding overview demonstrates that you have thoroughly planned your project’s financial aspects. Include details of match funding as to how you make up the rest of the funds necessary for the project.
7. Risk assessments
Risk assessments should cover and include every element of your project, including the possibility of changes in the team or the skills that are available to you.
8. Gather supporting documents
It is essential that you have all the relevant supporting documents to submit your application. Before you begin writing, make sure you have everything prepared that is requested of you.
9. Take time to prepare
The best grant applications will demonstrate that time and careful thought have gone into them. Don’t rush, allocate yourself plenty of time to prepare your application before the submission deadline.
10. Do not incur costs until your grant is confirmed
Any costs you incur prior to receiving confirmation of the grant will not be refunded to you. Doing this can make your application void. Prepare detailed quotes, but do not pay any money out until you are sure you have been approved for the grant.
How we can help
If you are applying for this grant to improve your farm’s sustainability, our professional team can assist you:
• Design, Installation and Maintenance
We offer comprehensive solar panel design, installation and maintenance services, tailored to meet the specific needs of your farm. We can provide a detailed quote to help you apply for farming solar grants. Discover more about the solar services we offer particularly tailored to agricultural settings.
Our specialist services extend beyond solar. Contact us to discuss what types of renewable energy systems might be ideal for your goals.
• Sustainable energy consultancy services
Our experts can help you assess your farm’s current energy usage and identify opportunities for improvement. One common question in sustainable farming grant applications is about your current use of fossil fuels and whether you have considered more sustainable options. It’s important to answer this question honestly and thoroughly.
Here at Elementum, we offer expert sustainable energy consultancy services. Get in touch with us for specialist, bespoke advice on how to make your farm more sustainable.
Get in touch
We’d love to discuss how we can help make your project a reality. Get in touch today for further guidance on the Improving Farm Productivity grant application or to find out more about our services. Call us now on 01798 879947 or email michael@elementum-esg.co.uk.