Applicant feedback helps to improve our processes

Last year, we asked an independent research organisation, Verian, to survey a diverse range of community organisations that had engaged with us to seek funding. Through mini focus groups and interviews, over 60 organisations participated (the majority from our priority communities), including those that had had requests approved and declined and those that had decided not to complete their applications.

We thank you so much for your valuable time and for giving your feedback.

The survey findings were kept anonymous, and Foundation North’s staff don’t know which organisations took part. However, the key message we heard was loud and clear – not all applicants experience the funding application journey as a smooth ride, with feedback calling for simpler, more streamlined processes along with guidance and information in plainer language.

The findings of the research give us clarity on the steps we can take to:

• maximise the opportunity for a successful application for all priority communities
• ensure all applicants have a good experience with Foundation North, regardless of the application outcome.

We have begun to make some changes including:

• A simple form for groups applying for the first time to tell us about their project
• Saving time by notifying groups early on if their project is unlikely to be funded
• A much quicker turnaround time for well-aligned groups to be registered in our Funding Hub
• The offer of real-time assistance from our Funding Support Advisors for those new to setting up their organisation in our system
• Provided clearer timeframes and more proactive updates on decision dates via email
• Created more empathetic, transparent communications when declining or partially funding applications
• Simplified and accelerated the payment process
• Provided clearer guidance on our focus areas, clarity on strategic fit, including examples of well-aligned requests
• Created transparent and varied ways of communicating our funding information and shared examples of successful applicants
• Improved access to funding information and interpreter services if you speak another language.

Updated September 2025