SAM PALMER, DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Why did you apply to the foundation? A former chairman told us about it, so we looked into it.
Although the foundation is based in the United States, its funding remit covers the UK and its emphasis on education and preparation for the workplace made it a good fit for our xl programme, which runs clubs in schools for pupils at risk of exclusion.
What did the application process involve? First we had to send a concept paper, which helped with the development of our full proposal. We then filled in a nine-page online application form and added ten pages of appendices.
The foundation staff in the US and the UK offered support and advice throughout the application process. They visited xl clubs to see our work on the ground and to gain an idea of the difference their funding would make.
We found the application procedure clear. We were particularly impressed by the foundation's strategic approach to funding, commitment to developmental partnership and knowledge of the issues facing young people.
Is part of the money for infrastructure or training? A proportion of the grant is directed towards delivery of the programme in Yorkshire and Wales, but the vast majority is to be invested in the future development of the xl programme, including research.
The grant will therefore allow us to improve training for xl workers, provide information to xl members and evaluate the impact of the programme.
Did you apply to any other funders? No.
WHY WE GAVE THE GRANT
Emma Tamblingson, corporate citizenship manager, GE Foundation
Our main focus for the UK is to support education and preparation for success in the workplace, which married well with the Prince's Trust.
When visiting and looking at the application, it was clear that the xl clubs had a good curriculum. The trust wanted to expand them, but realised it needed an element of evaluation to go forward. That really impressed us.
There has to be a success indicator for us to give money and the trust showed an understanding of this. The project is already so good that by giving it more support we can only make it better.
