Apply for funding
Our grant programme aims to support organisations which actively involve young people and children in their project development and deliverance, and who are dedicated to championing a next generation of creatives.
We welcome applications between £500 - £10,000.
If you are seeking funding, please arrange an informal chat with the I AM Fund Engagement Officer, Annie Kirkman: ak@heysmilefoundation.org / 01482 590270.
Project proposals must meet at least ONE of the following priority themes:
Improve experience
Inspire creative expression
Invest in local talent
Project proposals should also demonstrate:
A commitment to learning and development
A clear understanding of the project’s legacy and progression
A detailed Safeguarding strategy
How to apply:
Full grant guidance, assessment criteria, as well as our online application form can be found when applying below. Organisations must be registered on Beecan and ensure governing documents, accounts and safeguarding polices are uploaded.
Check if your idea and organisation is eligible below:
Application assessments
The committee will review submitted applications and consider the following:
Impact of previous work
Safety and suitability of planned activities
Risk management and level of the I AM Fund support to ensure operations continue
How projects meet I AM Fund key priorities
Timescales
There are 3 official funding rounds per year ending in February, June and October. Applications will be reviewed and awarded within one month of the deadline.
The I AM Fund committee is willing to consider emergency applications between funding rounds should they fit the criteria.
Projects are often unsuccessful due to:
Not within grant policy and doesn’t meet the funding priorities
Equality and diversity issue observed
Budgets and / or value for money not clear
Poor planning and / or capacity issue observed
Safeguarding concern
Not clear what difference will be made
Organisation finances
Statutory overlap
Grant guidance:
Please read our grant policy prior to submitting your application. You can find a large print version of the grant policy below:
The committee will provide feedback on all applications and their decision is final.
If required, we can provide a Word version of the application form, guidance documents and invite applicants to present their proposals. Please arrange a meeting with our I AM Fund Engagement Officer if this is needed or you would like to discuss proposals before submission.
