ArtsFunded guide
Funder Research for Artists: How a Useful Shortlist Works
How funder research helps artists avoid wasting time on the wrong applications.
Published · By Matthew Simmonds
A funder shortlist should not just be a list of links.
Anyone can collect links. Useful funder research tells you which routes are worth your time, what the risks are, and what evidence you need before applying.
A useful shortlist includes fit
For each funder, you want to know:
- Who they fund
- What they fund
- Typical grant size
- Deadline pattern
- Eligibility issues
- Why your project may fit
- Why it may not fit
The "why not" is just as valuable as the "why".
It should help you choose an order
Sometimes the best route is not the first route. You may need a small fund to test something before a larger bid. You may need partner confirmation before ACE. You may need a research report before a trust application.
Good funder research creates a sequence.
It should be realistic
If a funder technically fits but has a tiny success chance, say so. If the deadline is too close, say so. If the project needs a stronger evidence base, say so.
Optimism is lovely. Strategy needs honesty.
When to pay for funder research
Pay for research when:
- You have a strong project but no clear funder
- You keep applying to the same route
- You are planning a year of work
- You need trust and foundation options
- You want to avoid wasting writing time
Need a shortlist?
For one fund choice, start with £45 Funding Direction. For a researched shortlist, route map and 90-day plan, choose the £350 Funding Strategy Sprint.