Introduction
Securing funding is one of the most challenging aspects of establishing and maintaining a grassroots organization, especially in the inshore fishing industry. The process can be complex and competitive, with numerous organizations vying for limited resources. Additionally, the requirements and criteria for funding can vary significantly between different funders, making it essential to understand and navigate these intricacies effectively. This chapter will provide guidance on potential sources of funding, including specific fisheries grants and funders, and offer strategies for successfully securing financial support for your Community Interest Company (CIC).
Understanding the Funding Landscape
The funding landscape for fisheries and related grassroots organizations is diverse, encompassing government grants, private foundations, and industry-specific funds. Each of these sources has its own set of criteria, application processes, and priorities. Understanding these elements is crucial for identifying the most suitable funding opportunities for your organization.
Potential Fisheries Grants and Funders
Here are some key funding opportunities available for fisheries and related grassroots organizations in the UK:
Private Foundations and Funders
1. Esmee Fairbairn Foundation
2. The Prince’s Countryside Fund
3. The Fishmongers’ Company
4. The Seafarers’ Charity
Strategies for Securing Funding
Securing funding requires careful planning, thorough research, and strategic application. Here are some strategies to increase your chances of success:
1. Align with Funders’ Priorities: Ensure that your project aligns with the priorities and criteria of the funder. Tailor your application to highlight how your project meets these priorities.
2. Demonstrate Impact: Clearly articulate the expected impact of your project. Use data and evidence to support your claims and demonstrate the potential benefits to the community and the environment.
3. Build Strong Partnerships: Collaborate with other organizations, stakeholders, and community groups. Strong partnerships can enhance your project’s credibility and increase its chances of success.
4. Prepare Thorough Applications: Pay close attention to the application requirements and provide all necessary information. Ensure that your application is well-organized, clear, and compelling.
5. Seek Feedback: Before submitting your application, seek feedback from colleagues, partners, or advisors. They can provide valuable insights and help you strengthen your proposal.
Funding Sources
We spent considerable time trying to locate grants that would allow for a grassroots fishermen-led Community Interest Company to apply. Here is a brief selection of some of the funders and details about the funds available.
What the Fund is For: The National Lottery Community Fund supports community-led projects that improve health, wellbeing, and community cohesion.
Amount Available: Grants range from £300 to £20,000.
Application Period: Ongoing. Apply at least 16 weeks before you want to start the activities or spend any of the money.
Where to Apply: National Lottery Community Fund
What the Fund is For: The Henry Smith Charity provides grants for projects that support disadvantaged communities and improve lives.
Amount Available: Varies by program. For example, Holiday Grants range from £500 to £2,750 per trip.
Application Period: Ongoing for specific programs like Holiday Grants.
Where to Apply: Henry Smith Charity
What the Fund is For: The Greggs Foundation Community Grants support local organizations tackling challenges in their communities, such as social isolation and access to community services.
Amount Available: Up to £20,000 per year, for up to two years.
Application Period: Opens four times a year. The current round closes on May 9, 2025.
Where to Apply: Greggs Foundation
What the Fund is For: This fund supports community projects that bring people together, improve community spaces, and help people reach their potential.
Amount Available: £300 to £20,000.
Application Period: Ongoing. Apply at least 16 weeks before you need the funding.
Where to Apply: Awards for All England
What the Fund is For: The UK Fund supports grassroots and community organizations to engage communities and raise awareness of priority policy areas.
Amount Available: Up to £150,000.
Application Period: Opens April 23, 2025, and closes May 28, 2025.
Where to Apply: Community Engagement Fund
What the Fund is For: The Heritage at Risk Capital Fund supports the repair and conservation of historic sites at risk.
Amount Available: Varies based on project needs.
Application Period: Opens April 1, 2025, and closes March 31, 2026.
Where to Apply: Historic England
What the Fund is For: The American Express Foundation provides grants for programs that prepare youth for long-term success and support community resilience.
Amount Available: Varies by program.
Application Period: Ongoing.
Where to Apply: American Express Foundation
Conclusion
Securing funding is a critical step in establishing and sustaining a grassroots organization in the inshore fishing industry. By understanding the funding landscape, identifying suitable grants and funders, and employing strategic application practices, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, persistence and thorough preparation are key to navigating the complexities of the funding process.
Asking for Help
Reaching out to industry contacts can help you save time and not replicate effort. Fishing into the Future has a porthole that contains a wealth of information including links to funding opportunities. Link here: Funding & Grants Available – The Fishing Porthole.
Lesson Learned
Creating Project Scoping Document’s
When creating a project for funding it’s always good to start with initial scoping document to outline the project and component parts (hyperlink to project scoping document). Then it’s crucial to start a budget (hyperlink to Budget Cash-Flow)
From our experience so far, many funders request sight of quotes for all expenditures you are applying for funding for. These quotes must be dated within three months of date you plan on submitting funding application. Keep in mind if funding approved, with some government agencies, you are only allowed to change suppliers in certain circumstances, but you will not be able to increase amount awarded, so make sure any increase in cost for say three to six months after you obtain the quote, are covered, just in case.
For all supporting documents please use the links below:
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