Finding Funding

A brief guide

Funding can make or break you gardening plans but don’t be too daunted, there are many ways to find the resources you need.

For further information on a list of contacts click here.
Finding Funding

At the planning stage it’s worth having two or three options for you gardening activities, depending on the amount of funding you can secure. Although cash is the most flexible resource, offers of materials and labour can be just as valuable, so be imaginative about who you approach, and open to all suggestions. It is also worth bearing in mind that it’s easier to find funds to start a project than to maintain and develop it, so on-going commitments are particularly valuable.

Here are some suggestions:

• Traditional fundraising techniques, from sponsored silences to boot fairs, can generate useful amounts of cash. They are even more valuable in helping to spread the word and generate enthusiasm for your gardening projects.
• Your local borough or county council may provide funds or advice – see if they have a horticultural or environmental specialist who can help.
• Other educational establishments in the area may lend support – a secondary school might provide labour as a community service project, an art college could provide garden sculptures and a horticultural college spare plants.
• Many large businesses have community service programmes so make sure your local branches know you would value their contribution.
• Local businesses, especially with horticultural or environmental interests, may provide finance, or resources in kind.
• Tap into local organisations that have charitable funds, or labour, they can offer.
• Use the local media to generate publicity and help find potential sponsors. Make sure your contributors have information, and pictures, so they can generate publicity too.
• Enter competitions and apply for grants both locally and nationally. Make sure you tailor your application to the scheme’s aims which may be to encourage sustainability, improve the local environment, or benefit disadvantaged groups.