Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ page should be read together with the Guidance document before you start your application. This FAQ page is designed to answer questions that may not be covered in the Guidance document or to clarify things referred to in that document.
 
If you have any questions that are not answered here or in the Guidance document, please contact the Policy, Governance and Performance team before submitting your application. 

Please note that the Council will also be holding two information sessions which give another opportunity to ask questions that you may feel are not covered in this webpage or the guidance document.

Why do you have a two-stage process?

Two stage grant application is not uncommon for grant funding. In previous years the Council has received significantly more applications than it is able to fund. We want to make sure that at the initial stages the required level of detail to apply is not excessive, and by having a second stage for those who progress beyond the Expression of Interest (EOI) stage it ensures that all organisations are not expending considerable time on an application that may be unsuccessful.

How many organisations does the Council expect to support with the Grant funding?

The exact number will depend on the applications received and the outcome of the assessment process. 

What is the likelihood of my application being successful?

We cannot answer at this stage as it depends on how many applications are made, and how much funding is requested. This is a new Third Sector Grant Fund process so numbers of applications and how much is requested may differ from previous grant funding cycles.

Can I apply for funding for just one year?

No, all applications must be for three years of funding. The grant is designed to provide longer term support for organisations for core funding.

Can I apply for funding if I have received funding in the past?

Yes, whether you are currently in receipt of Third Sector Grant funding, or have been in the past, or have never received funding before, is not part of the eligibility criteria.

Will applications for organisations currently in receipt of funding receive preference?

No, all applications are assessed on the same criteria, as outlined in the guidance notes. 

If I am successful will funding automatically be extended after three years?

No, decisions on extension for a further two years will consider performance in the initial three years. 

Do applicants need to show how their work aligns with all the three priorities?

No, applicants must demonstrate that their work aligns with at least one of the priorities. If you think your work aligns with more than one priority you should indicate this.

Can I apply if my organisation is based outside of Neat Port Talbot?

Yes, organisations outside of Neath Port Talbot can apply but you must be able to demonstrate the connections you have to the local area. This might include, for example, current or prior experience of delivering in the local area or clear delivery connections you have with organisations in Neath Port Talbot.

Why is it a requirement that organisations have been operating at least two years?

The Third Sector Grant Fund is not designed to support start up organisations. The requirement for organisations to have been operating for at least two years ensures that applicants have a track record of reasonable length that gives reassurance to the Council that they are capable of delivering. Within that two-year period organisations will have had to file at least one year of filed accounts meaning the Council can see the financial position of the organisation applying.

Is there a minimum or maximum turnover for organisations who want to apply?

No, there is no minimum or maximum turnover.

Do I have to apply for capital costs and / or innovation costs? 

No, this is entirely up to you if you wish to apply for these costs in your application.

Can I apply for both capital and innovation costs?

Yes, as long as you keep to the limit of 20% of the total grant requested for each one and make the case for both costs in your application form.

Will my application be looked upon more or less favourably if I include capital and / or innovation costs?

No, it will not affect the overall assessment of your application. The Council would like to support organisations who make a strong case for innovation and / or capital funding but it is not a requirement. The Council is not looking to encourage organisations to include these costs, only to make the funding flexible enough to support these costs because it believes that in some cases covering these costs can help with wider aspirations to support organisational sustainability.

What things can and cannot be funded?

Please read the information in the guidance notes. If you still have questions, please contact us. Contact details are listed at the end of this application.

I struggle with online application forms; can I complete a written application form?

Yes, whilst the Council prefers online application forms to be completed, written application forms will be accepted and will be assessed in exactly the same way as applications completed online. Forms are available for downloading from the Council internet page or paper copies can be requested from the Council.

What do I do if I do not have one or more of the required documents for inclusion to support the application?

If possible, please make contact with the Council before the application deadlines to explain the situation so the Council can take an informed view on what to do. 

Will you be able other accept applications submitted late?

No, in most circumstances we will not be able to accept applications submitted after the closing note. We would urge you to raise any issues you think you might have in completing the application by Tuesday 13th October for EOI / Tuesday 17th November 2026 for full application. Please ensure that the full application is submitted by the deadline with all required supporting documents attached. This applies to both the EOI and the full application stage. 

If you have any questions about the fund or the application process, please contact the Policy, Governance and Performance team. 
 
Email:             Thirdsectorgrants@npt.gov.uk 

Telephone:     07805 771506

These guidance notes are also available in Welsh. Please contact us using the details above to request a Welsh language version.