I AM FUND

The I AM Fund will support local charitable organisations that provide opportunities for children and young people (ages 0-18) to participate in performance arts. We aim to support organisations which actively involve young people and children in their project development and deliverance, and who are dedicated to championing a next generation of creatives. 

Project proposals must meet at least ONE of the following priority themes:

  • Inspire creative expression 
  • Improve experience 
  • Invest in local talent 

Project proposals should also demonstrate:

  • A commitment to learning and development
  • A clear understanding of the project’s legacy

Grant Value: 

Organisations can apply for up to £10,000 and receive development support from HEY Smile Foundation.  

How to Apply: 

  1. Register your organisation on Beecan
  2. Create a new project
  3. Apply to I Am Fund Expressions of Interest (if you would prefer to apply in a verbal format please contact iamfund@heysmilefoundation.org)
  4. Answer further questions
  5. Await contact from the I Am Fund Engagement Officer who will contact regarding next steps
  6. Your application will then be taken to the I Am Fund panel

Assessment: 

The committee will review submitted applications and consider: 

  • Impact of previous work 
  • Safety and suitability of planned activities 
  • Risk management and level of I AM Fund support to ensure operations continue 
  • How project meets I AM Fund key priorities 

Timescales:  

There are 3 official funding rounds per year ending in February, June and October. Applications will be reviewed and awarded within one month of deadline.

The I Am Fund is willing to consider emergency applications between funding rounds should they fit the criteria.

Projects unsuccessful due to: 

  • Not within grant policy and doesn’t meet the funding priorities (please review our grant policy). 
  • Equality and diversity issue observed. 
  • Budgets and/or value for money not clear. 
  • Poor planning and/or capacity issue observed. 
  • Safeguarding concern. 
  • Not clear what difference will be made. 
  • Organisation finances. 
  • Statutory overlap.     

Grant Guidance: 

Please read our grant policy prior to submitting your application. You can find a large print version of the grant policy here.

The Committee will provide feedback on all applications and their decision is final. 

Top tip: please review the common reasons why an application might be unsuccessful.

How to Apply: 

Applications need to be made via Beecan.

Below video was done by Billboard TV in November 2020.