The Guernsey Community Foundation (GCF) has revamped its grants programme to make it easier for local voluntary organisations to apply for funding.
Charities can now complete and submit applications online, with no need to print out or sign forms.
In addition, charities can now apply for grants of £5,000 and above. Previously, the minimum amount had been set at £10,000.
The changes, which coincide with the Foundation’s 10th anniversary, include the appointment of an adviser who will support charities that want help navigating the application process.
Jim Roberts, chief executive of the Guernsey Community Foundation said: “The new-look Grants Programme is all about helping more charities by making the application process easier, and by paying out smaller as well as larger amounts.”
The grants panel meets regularly to consider applications, but applications can be made all year round via the Foundation’s website.
The Foundation is also welcoming two new members to its grants panel, Ben Jones and Susie Gallienne, as well as an honorary member, Yvonne Hodder.
“Yvonne will provide valuable support to organisations,” said John Renouf, Chair of the grants panel.
“She’ll meet with charities and help them with their application by offering more practical advice. We want to maximise applicants’ chances of success and make the process as user-friendly as possible.
“Yvonne’s professional background in project management, where she’s worked on large infrastructure projects and helped with tendering, will be of great benefit to charities when applying for funding.”
Mrs Hodder said: “I am really excited about my appointment and am looking forward to working with and supporting the island’s hardworking charities in drafting their applications for funding. Often this can be a daunting process, especially if you have never applied for a grant before. Hopefully, having someone to chat to who has been through the process, successfully several times, will be a help and encourage more organisations to apply.”
The Foundation’s grants programme has access to £1.3m of grant funding every year. The programme is open to any non-profit organisation and registered charity whose activities benefits the local community. For more information go to www.foundation.gg/grants.
