EQC-CSS-701 Finding and Writing Funding Applications (2 Dec 2026)

Course Overview

This practical one-day course teaches delegates how to use Microsoft 365 to identify funding opportunities, research community needs, plan projects, develop budgets, write compelling funding applications and manage the submission process.

Designed specifically for charities, CICs, community organisations and social entrepreneurs, the course focuses on using Microsoft 365 applications including Word, Excel, Forms, OneNote, Teams, Planner, Lists, SharePoint and Copilot to create a structured and efficient approach to funding and grant applications.

Delegates will learn how to gather evidence, demonstrate need, define outcomes, prepare realistic project budgets and present funding proposals that align with funder requirements.

The course uses practical examples relevant to new and established charities, CICs and community organisations.

Who Should Attend?

This course is suitable for:

• CIC founders and directors
• Charity founders and trustees
• Fundraising officers
• Bid writers
• Project coordinators
• Community development workers
• Programme managers
• Volunteer managers
• Social entrepreneurs
• Sole traders delivering community projects
• Anyone responsible for applying for grants, awards or social investment funding

What You Will Learn

By the end of the course delegates will be able to:

• Identify funding opportunities aligned to their organisation’s objectives
• Research and demonstrate community need
• Define clear project aims, objectives, outputs and outcomes
• Create realistic and fundable project budgets
• Gather and organise supporting evidence
• Use Microsoft 365 tools to manage the bid-writing process
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and partners
• Use Microsoft Copilot responsibly to support funding applications
• Produce stronger, evidence-based funding proposals
• Create a plan for future funding opportunities

Prerequisites

Delegates must:

• Have a Microsoft 365 account
• Have access to Microsoft 365 online applications
• Be able to log in to Microsoft 365
• Have basic keyboard and mouse skills
• Be able to join a Microsoft Teams meeting

Previous experience of writing funding bids is not required.

What Is Included?

• Live trainer-led delivery
• Digital course workbook
• Practical exercises
• Funding bid templates
• Budget templates
• Project planning templates
• Certificate of attendance
• Post-course reference guide
• Q&A session