A Community First Yorkshire event

Winning the Lottery – Reaching Communities funding masterclass

Are you ready to take your funding bid to the next level? With competition for grants from The National Lottery Community Fund fiercer than ever, it’s essential to understand what makes an application stand out.

This masterclass focuses on the Reaching Communities programme and is designed to give you the tools, insights and confidence to craft a compelling bid designed to meet funders’ priorities. Whether you’re new to the process or looking to refine your approach, this session will help you navigate the latest criteria* and present your project with clarity and impact.

In this interactive Zoom session, our funding expert Nicky Ruddick will guide you through:

  • The latest Reaching Communities funding criteria*
  • The application process – what to expect and how to prepare
  • How to present your organisation and project clearly and persuasively.

You’ll also benefit from a live Q&A session to get your questions answered, a mix of presentation and discussion to keep things engaging and practical tips to help you submit a high-quality application.

By the end of the session, you’ll have a stronger understanding of lottery funding, and increased confidence in your ability to secure a grant.

Places are limited, so book early to avoid missing out!

*Please be aware that criteria for grant content may change.

What will you learn?

By the end of this practical and engaging masterclass, you will:

  • Understand what types of organisations and projects are eligible for Reaching Communities funding
  • Learn how applications are assessed and what funders are really looking for
  • Discover the most common reasons applications are rejected—and how to avoid them
  • Gain clarity on outcomes and indicators for your project
  • Learn how to consult effectively with your beneficiaries to shape your proposal
  • Understand how to ensure your project is properly costed.

Nicky will guide you through each step with practical examples, offering plenty of time for questions.

Please note that questions should be kept general so that the discussion remains relevant to the whole group.  

Who should attend?

If you’re a voluntary or community organisation seeking project funding above £10,000 and you want your application to be successful, this is the workshop for you.

Please note this training is aimed at voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations and groups based in North Yorkshire or delivering services within North Yorkshire.

What's included?

The session will be followed with a useful resource pack of handouts and templates.

About the trainer

Nicky Ruddick has 20 years’ experience as a funding advisor, securing funding for hundreds of voluntary organisations including village halls, play areas, health and social care groups and youth clubs across North Yorkshire.

Cost and concessions

£35 (including VAT)

Concessionary places

Thanks to funding from North Yorkshire Council, we have free ‘first come, first served’ places if you meet either of the criteria below. You can self-select a free place during booking.

Criteria:

You are from a North Yorkshire VCSE organisation with an income of up to £5k

OR

You are from a North Yorkshire VCSE organisation with an income of up to £25k that is experiencing financial hardship and would struggle to pay.

These spaces are limited so if a free place is not shown when you go to book, you can ask to be added to the waiting list for a free place on a future training session.

Cancellations should be made up to 7 days prior to the event for a full refund.

See our  Terms and Conditions  for more information.

Booking and contact information

Book here.

Booking Deadline: 2 February 2025.

For queries about your booking or the training, please email: info@communityfirstyorkshire.org.uk or call 01904 704177.

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