We are making a couple of updates to our expression of interest form for applicants, which will be in place from 26 June.
What’s changing?
We ask everyone who wants Esmée funding to submit a short Expression of Interest. We use this to decide whether to follow up with a call to find out more. We want to remain open to new ideas, but also recognise the time cost of applying, so only ask two questions:
- Question 1
What would you like Esmée to support?
Briefly outline how our funding and support will be used.
- Question 2
What’s the change you are focused on achieving and how is your organisation well placed to deliver it?
We’re interested in understanding the need your work will address, and the opportunities your organisation or partnership is uniquely placed to take. We will also look at your website to learn about your organisation so use this space to focus on the change you want to achieve in relation to Esmée’s priorities/long-term outcomes.
Applicants will have a total word count of 300 words to answer both questions. This is instead of 150 words for each question. We hope this offers a little more flexibility for applicants.
For new applicants, there is only one small change to the wording of the second question, and we have added some guidance, which we hope is helpful.
For organisations we currently fund that wish to submit an expression of interest for further support, the change in wording means we are consistent in what we are asking all applicants. If you have already been sent an invitation link to submit an expression of interest, this will remain valid and take you to our existing form.
Please note if you have already submitted an expression of interest, we will review it in line with the questions you responded to.
If you have any questions or feedback about these changes, do get in touch by emailing: communications@esmeefairbairn.org.uk.
We are also planning to host a pre-application Q&A with the team for people interested in applying to Esmée and have questions about our guidance or application process on 20 June at 11am.
