Working in a local community or a community of interest, volunteers and professionals alike will often be aware of an acute need. However, gaining official recognition of this need and access to resources to provide a solution will rarely be as easy as marching into the appropriate office and saying "I know". Budget holders and funders require proof.
To access specific streams of funding it may be necessary to show:
Evidence of need in quantative and qualitative form
Evidence of gaps in provision
A suitable strategy for addressing that need
To be "first past the post" where funding is awarded on a competitive basis, it may be necessary to show:
A detailed knowledge of the client group
Knowledge of all options available
Consideration of other agencies addressing similar needs
Funding options considered as supplementary income or as unsuitable income for a project
Evidence may be considered more tangible if provided by an independent consultant.
In certain circumstances, funding may be available for such research work.
Research into the specific area of activity you need information about
Identification of needs or issues through analysis
Recommendations for future project development
Strategies for implementing those recommendations
Identification of appropriate funding for the initial research or recommended solutions where appropriate
Liaison with funders
All carried out according to the financial or output requirements of the customer.
Experience of finding "hidden" social economy activity
Field tested research and analysis methodologies
Access to shared team skills and resources
Knowledge of a range of social economy models
A commitment to economic development
Working knowledge of partnership requirements and strategic objectives of funders
Proven track record
Everything you ever wanted to know about Suffolk but were afraid to ask. A study of the co-operative and community enterprise sectors and their support needs across the county for Suffolk County Council. The report led to the development of a support service to meet those needs (Suffolk Co-operative and Community Enterprise Support Service).
The Southampton Sector Study. A study of training and development needs of the co-operative sector in Southampton. The study led to a successful proposal to the DTI which funded the development of a training and support programme to empower co-operative micro-enterprises to develop into co-operative small to medium enterprises.
Social Firms in Essex. A study of social firms, social employment projects and potential for further development across Essex. Social Firms for Essex! commissioned the work, which led to a multi-agency network co-ordinating partner activity, sourcing funding and delivering direct support services.
Other related information sheets in the CAN portfolio
Updated May 2002