Use the Lottery website to identify the most relevant Lottery funding programme and / or Lottery Funder. All Lottery funders have a formal application process, so once you've found the most suitable one, contact them for further details.

What is matched funding and do I need it?

Lottery funders normally expect an applicant to contribute towards the cost of a project or to find additional funding or contributions from a private or other source. This is normally in cash but sometimes you may be able to provide 'in kind' contributions, for example staff or volunteer time, materials and so on.

Check with your Lottery funder to see whether you need matched funding for your project and what types of matched funding they will accept.


What will the funder ask when I call?

There are a range of questions a funder might ask, these include:

• Where are you based?
• How much are you applying for?
• Information about how your group is set up
• What do you know about us, have you seen our website or information pack?
• What is your project?

You may be asked to fill in a pre-application form or directed to a website or regional office.

How long does it take to get a decision?

This varies between Lottery funders and normally depends on the size of grant and funding programme. You should expect the decision to take at least three months. For some funding programmes it is much longer. Check Lottery funders' websites for further details.

Will I be successful?

All Lottery funders receive more applications for good projects than they have the funds to support. Your application will be assessed on its own merit but remember you are competing against other applications

Where can I go for more support?

This website can provide general advice on putting together a Lottery funding application. The Lottery section includes some basic information sheets and links to helper agencies and other sources of information. In the Lottery funders area you will also find the names and contact details of all the Lottery funders. Lottery funders will provide you with further support or direct you to their helper agencies for further assistance.

This varies between Lottery funders and normally depends on the size of grant and funding programme. If your application is successful, the funder will explain to you the arrangements for making payments.

Can I apply to more than one Lottery funder?

If your project is relevant to two or more Lottery funders you can apply to different funders to support different parts of the project. You cannot, however, apply to different funders for money to cover the same costs.

What happens after I've submitted my application?

Once the Lottery funder receives your application, you will be sent an acknowledgement and reference number. If you have any queries about your application contact your funder's regional office, making sure you have the reference number ready.