Arts Funding applications

In 2018, I left my stable, dependable university job to pursue the adventurous life as a freelance theatre maker and teacher! 18 months later, COVID struck, and all my work disappeared.

Having written 4 successful Arts Council England (ACE) applications for my own projects, it occurred to me that this might be something I could do for other people

6 years later (at the time of writing), I've now helped write 85 applications. Most of these have been for ACE funding, but I’ve also worked on Creative Scotland and British Council applications.

I'm crossing my fingers and toes for the 15 who are awaiting R&D decisions. Of the previous 70 applications, 26 were successful, so that’s a bit better than 1 in 3.

ACCESS SUPPORT

Most of this work I do now as Access Support for people with conditions that make the application process more difficult - such as dyslexia, ADHD or autism. In these cases, the Arts Council pay me directly to help them. The Arts Council (currently) does not require an official diagnosis - you just need to describe your conditions.

My experience as a Level 4 co-ordinator and personal tutor at the University of Brighton definitely helps with this work. I supported many people with conditions, including ADHD, dyslexia, autism, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. I also helped a lot of Arts students who did not like writing essays… to write essays.

ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND (ACE) FUNDING TYPES

DYCP (Develop Your Creative Practice) - this offers up to £12k for individuals to work on skills/research/networks. The scheme is open a few times a year.

NLPG (National Lottery Project Grant) - has 2 tiers: up to £30k and over £30k, for individuals or organisations to create arts projects. Open to apply at any time.

CONTACT ME ABOUT FUNDING SUPPORT USING THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE

Read more about access support on the Arts Council England’s own webpage

CLIENT feedback

  • “Matt Rudkin’s knowledge of the intricacies of the application process made everything I had to do manageable and even fun. This felt like quite an achievement given how intimidating the process can be to someone like me who needs access support. His methodical approach was exactly what I needed”

    - Jo Neary

  • “Matt’s guidance in putting my first and successful DYCP application together was not only immense fun, but he was utterly masterful in putting my ideas into a written narrative that was both lively, interesting and informative. I can’t recommend him highly enough.”

    - Petra Massey

  • “Matt provided excellent support with my Arts Council application. He guided me through every step of the process, helping me bring my ideas together and stay focused on what was needed. His advice was clear and encouraging, and he kept me on track throughout. Thanks to his support, I was able to submit a strong and successful application. I’m really grateful for his help”

    - Lindon Barr

  • “For anyone who is considering applying for Arts Council funding, Matt Rudkin is a support worker who helps people write applications who face barriers such as dyslexia, neurodivergence, mental health difficulties, etc. He's helped me write a successful application in the past, and I'm currently using his services again!”

    - Daisy Jordan

  • “I worked with Matt Rudkin on mine (after seeing a post of his offering his services) - and he was amazing at keeping me on track, holding me accountable and explaining when things weren't clear in the process. It's the first time I've ever got support like that for anything - and I couldn't recommend it (and him specifically) enough!’”

    - Dolly Turing

  • “I am very excited about starting my DYCP project this month. Big thanks to Matt Rudkin, who helped me with the application; I could not have done it without him. If anyone is considering applying to the Arts Council for this or other funding opportunities, I would highly recommend him”

    - Ivan Fabrega

  • “Matt was essential in getting my successful ACE funding application in 2023. He guided me through the application questions and helped to shape my thoughts and notes into concise answers. I find ACE Grant applications very nerve-wracking and anxiety-inducing but Matt’s approach is very knowledgeable and warm! He helped me to feel confident about my ideas and my application”

    – Joni Rae Carrack

  • "Matt’s support through the ACE application process was a game-changer. His expert guidance helped me craft a really focused, powerful proposal. I felt confident throughout, and the clarity of the final application was all thanks to his insight. I can’t recommend him enough”

    – Ollie Harrison

  • “I really recommend Matt. He helped me secure funding to study clowning. Due to my disabilities, I wouldn't have been able to do it without his help. He's amazing”

    - SallyAnn Fellows

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ask me anything

✳︎ Get in touch ✳︎ ask me anything