Securing funding for a heritage project is never just about filling in forms. It’s about building a case that’s credible, compelling, and clearly aligned with what funders want to support. Whether you’re considering an application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) or another major grant giver, preparation is everything.
At IPC, we’ve supported dozens of organisations to develop successful bids – and we know the process often starts long before work on the application form begins. Here are some of the key things to get in place now so you’re ready when the opportunity arises.
Organisational Health Check
Funders want to back organisations they can trust. That means making sure your accounts are up to date, your governance structure is appropriate, and your financial controls are robust. If you’re not a registered charity, make sure your legal status allows you to receive and manage grant funding. If you’re working in partnership, clarify roles and responsibilities early on.
Know Your Audiences – And Who’s Missing
Funders like the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) want to see that projects respond to the needs of people, not just buildings. Start by gathering basic data such as attendance records, visitor comments, postcode data, feedback forms and surveys. Then go further: who isn’t engaging, and why? Understanding your current and potential audiences will help you shape a project that is inclusive, relevant, and meaningful.
Define the Need and Shape the Vision
The most successful projects are those that meet a clear need. That might be about the building itself – urgent repairs, accessibility, or modernisation – or the needs of your users and wider community. A strong vision is important, but so is focus. Ask yourself: What is needed now? What’s realistic? What will create lasting impact? A well-honed project is more likely to succeed than an over-ambitious one.
Understand Funder Expectations
Each funder has different priorities. NLHF, for example, is guided by four key principles: saving heritage; protecting the environment; access, inclusion and participation; and organisational resilience. Before you apply, spend time understanding not just the funder’s goals, but the processes they use to assess and monitor projects. Planning around these from the start makes for a smoother journey.
Consider Cashflow
Many large grants are paid in arrears. That means you’ll need to spend money before it can be reclaimed and that can put real pressure on cashflow. Consider how you’ll manage this and explore options for bridging finance, contingency planning, or match funding to ease the strain.
Free Health Checklist
To help you take stock, we’ve created a free Health Checklist – a simple tool to help you assess whether your organisation is ready to apply for major funding. It covers areas like governance, finance, and strategic planning.
Download it now to see where you’re strong and where you might need support.
Start the Journey Now
The road to a successful bid can take 6 months or more. By investing time now in strengthening your organisation, understanding your audiences, clarifying your vision, and aligning with funder priorities, you’ll be in a much stronger position when the moment comes.
At IPC, we’ve helped over 90 clients secure more than £2.5 million in funding since 2020. We can support you at every stage – from early planning and audience research to bid writing, delivery, and evaluation.
Ready to start shaping your project? Explore our services or get in touch for a no-pressure conversation about how we can help.
