More information: Ethics and good practice in accepting funding

Only apply for what you really need

Be realistic and ask only for the costs, items, or support that are essential to deliver the project or outcomes you've described.

Why this is good practice:

• Funders have limited budgets and want to back genuine, high-impact needs.
• It helps stretch funds further across the community sector.
• Padding out your budgets can undermine your credibility.

Avoid "double dipping"

“Double dipping" refers to applying to multiple funders for the same costs, items, or project purposes - such as asking two trusts for the same piece of equipment, or funding for the same expenses (like staff time or event costs).

Best ways to handle multiple applications ethically:

• Apply to different funders for different parts of the project (e.g. one for staff time, another for materials) and clearly state this in each application.
• Disclose other applications or funding received when forms ask you to.
• If one funder covers part of a need, adjust your requests to others.
• Be transparent and honest about your full funding picture.

Conflicts of interest: How to check for them and manage internally

A conflict of interest happens when someone in your organisation (board member, staff, volunteer) has a personal or professional connection that could, or might appear to, influence decisions about funding applications, the granting of funds, or the use of funds.

By proactively checking and and managing conflicts, you protect your organisation's integrity and demonstrate strong governance to funders. On the other hand, undisclosed conflicts can breach trust and Charities Act rules.

How to handle it:

• Review regularly: Before applying, ask at board or team meetings: "Does anyone have a connection to this funder or stand to personally benefit?" Document answers in minutes or in a conflicts of interest register. (For a conflict of interest register template) Declare openly: If a potential conflict exists, note it straight away in writing (e.g., meeting minutes or a conflicts of interest register).
• Manage it: The person with the conflict should step back from related discussions, voting, or application work. Get independent advice if needed.
• Have a policy: Put a basic conflicts-of-interest policy in your governance documents (Charities Services has some helpful examples and a template register you can adapt. 
• Disclose to funders if there are any conflicts of interest.

Ethical considerations in accepting funding

Before applying for or accepting funds, consider whether the funder's source of money, values, or activities align with your organisation's mission, values, and the communities you serve.

Why this is important:

• Taking money from a funder that conflicts with your mission can damage community trust, lose volunteer/donor support, or create internal tension.
• It might appear to compromise your independence and be inconsistent with your values.

Best practice:

• Ask yourself: Does the funder align with our values? Are there conditions that could limit our work? Is the source transparent?
• If unsure, discuss it as a team or seek advice. Many nonprofits now have clear guidelines for this.