Funding Your Dance Journey
Descreet & confidential
The application process is discreet and confidential. Only the applicant and the dance professional, school principal, or teacher will be aware of the application and the funding. This allows parents or guardians to apply without the dancer knowing if they wish.
Funding Guidelines
Eligible Expenses Applications for funding will be considered for any dance-related expense, provided it is supported by a dance professional and payable to a third party. Examples include:
- Dance School Tuition Fees: Funding to cover the cost of tuition.
- Competition Entry Fees: Funding to pay for entry into dance competitions.
- Travel Expenses: Funding for travel to dance workshops or competitions.
- Uniform Costs: Funding for dance school or competition uniforms.
Ineligible Expenses Funding will not be provided for the following:
- Personal Fees: Paying yourself a personal attendance fee or salary.
- Merchandise: Purchasing non-compulsory show or competition merchandise for personal use.
- Advertising and Marketing: Paying for personal advertising and marketing.
These examples are not exhaustive. Funding will be considered where it aligns with our aim of making dance accessible to all.
Note: Our funding is designed to support individuals. We do not fund full school or group expenses but will support an individual as part of a group or school experience.
Application Process
Our online application process is straightforward. Complete the relevant online form, and if necessary, we will verify the application before it progresses to the decision stage.
Applications can be submitted by:
- Dancers: Must be over 16 years of age.
- Parents or Guardians: On behalf of a dancer.
- Dance Professionals: Including dance schools and teachers
If applying as a dancer or parent/guardian, a dance professional sponsor is required. This sponsor must verify your application and attest to its potential impact. It is advisable to discuss the application with your sponsor prior to submission to avoid delays.
Decision Stage
Our decision process is based on the value of the application:
- Small (Up to £250): Application submitted to Trustees for a virtual vote. Decision typically within 14 days.
- Medium (£250 – £1,000): Application submitted to Trustees for a virtual vote, with the option to request further information/clarification from the applicant. Decision typically between 14 – 45 days.
- Large (Over £1,000): Application submitted to Trustees for comments/questions, followed by consideration at a full Trustees’ meeting. Decision typically within 30 – 60 days.
Please note that these timeframes are indicative and dependent on prompt responses to any supporting information/questions.
Awards
Due to limited funds, we may not be able to support every deserving application. If your application is unsuccessful, we will inform you in writing as soon as possible.
If successful, we will collaborate with you to determine the best payment process. As a charity, we ensure funds are used for their intended purpose, which may involve direct payments (e.g., paying dance school tuition fees directly) or cash awards with supporting evidence. We will work with the successful applicant to find a suitable solution that maintains confidentiality.
There is no limit on the number of applications you can submit within any timeframe. We are here to support you whenever possible, not just once a year.