Where to find funding

There are a number of funders both locally and nationally that regularly provide grants and other funding to community organisations.

Durham County Council funding – Area Action Partnerships (AAPs)

There are several ways in which you may be able to obtain funding through Durham County Council. This includes funding pots the Area Action Partnerships (AAP) can access such as the Area Budget, Welfare Reform Fund, Youth Fund, and their own local funding.

Each year the communities of the 14 AAPs pick their priorities and successful funding applications are measured against how they meet these objectives. The process starts with an annual call out for projects to give an expression of interest in the funding, these are then ranked, and the higher-ranking projects are invited to submit a full application.

Applications are then thoroughly appraised and financially assessed by the AAP board and funding team. Funds are then allocated to successful applications.

As well as following best practice for funding applications in general, there are some essential details that your organisation needs to provide for AAP funding:

• A definitive start date and end date (not ‘on-going’).
• Detailed and accurate costings with quotes as necessary.
• Confirmation that VAT has been considered.
• Match funding information/evidence of match funding secured.
• Evidence to show that future sustainability has been considered.
• Insurance information and any planning permission/ building regulations approval as required.
• Safeguarding and health and safety arrangements in place.
• Appropriate permissions in place for public events.
• Signed and dated governing document.
• Latest annual accounts and bank statement (not more than 3 months old).

Local funding is very competitive but if the AAP priorities match the aim of your project, it’s always worth expressing an interest. To find out which AAP you’re in visit the Area Action Partnerships page on the Durham County Council website. Contact your local AAP to find out more about funding in that area.