1.2 Promoting the funding opportunity and encouraging proposals or applications

A Fund launch event, in advance of the first round of award making. This could be part of another well-attended local event or a bespoke, separate event. Try to ensure it’s both fun and informative. Think about what will bring people along, in addition to the opportunity to find out about the Fund. Will catering be provided, local groups have a chance to showcase their activities, a competition be held, an address given by local politicians, or a performance by a local music or drama group, for example? Whatever the case, be sure to make the funding opportunity visible with banners, a stall providing information, and informed people on hand to speak to those who are keen to find out more.

Press release: editorial or advert, providing an attention-grabbing (local interest) hook for the media and key information on the Fund, including: what it will support, how much is available (Fund size) per year, award sizes, submission dates, plus contact details and/or a website address for more information.

Often one of the best ways of getting the word out. Clear, eye-catching information (font size not too small!) in local community halls, leisure centres, the doctor’s surgery, shops, and so on.

Are there local mailing lists, for example those held by the Community Council or a local councillor, which could be used to provide regular updates on the Fund?

Attending meetings of local voluntary groups and providing a briefing or presentation on the Fund can be very valuable, if volunteer or staff time is available. Or simply go along to hand out some leaflets.

Key Fund information should be made available on either a dedicated website or a webpage within an existing community website. This should also be the repository for more detailed information and application materials. All other publicity material should point people to this site/ page.

Posts on popular social media platforms, for example, local Facebook pages/groups, Twitter and Instagram.

A feature on the local station, if there is one, with perhaps a short interview or message. Remember that the station may cover a broader area than the Fund’s area of benefit, so be sure to be clear on that.