Check in - How's it going? + Funding Considerations.

Hey Chicken Coop folks! I wanted to check-in to see how ye are getting on in the starting up of your co-op?

I wanted to extend my services - I work for an organization called Rethink Ireland and I know that your co-op would be a perfect candidate for funding. We have funds coming up all the time and regularly fund autistic-run organizations and have funded other worker co-ops (such as Thriving Autistic; the Great Care Co-op).

Some questions for you to consider when applying for funding:

• Social Impact:

  • Define clear, measurable goals (e.g., “deliver 10 workshops reaching 300 participants in 12 months”, hire 2 project coordinators, increase staff, deliver animation for a campaign, develop learning materials, create a hub, increase satisfaction rates of staff and co-owners, etc.).

  • Show evidence of need and prior success - why is there a need for your co-op? have you piloted the project you are applying for? is your model based on an existing successful model from other countries?

  • Explain your monitoring and evaluation plan (what data you’ll collect and how) - surveys, testimonials, interviews, focus groups.

• Innovation

  • What makes your model different from existing solutions?

  • How does this uniqueness add value? - highlight the novelty of your approach.

  • Show evidence or rationale: Cite research or similar interventions that worked elsewhere.

  • Explain why this matters now: Link to current challenges (e.g., policy, research documents, AI, Pay, poor working conditions, protecting animators through providing secure employment and living wages).

  • Mention future potential: Could this become a template for other regions?

• Scaling

  • Provide a clear roadmap for key milestones - might be project or organization specific.

  • How you will approach scaling (replication model, open-source resources, advocacy).

    • Network Scaling: Form alliances with other creative co-ops for shared marketing, training, and funding. Creative Networks: Join or collaborate with groups like Creative Ireland, Animation Ireland, or European co-op federations. Education Links: Partner with art colleges for internships and joint projects.

  • Explain participant strategy (criteria, outreach channels, partnerships).

  • Detail staffing plan (new roles, expertise, recruitment approach).

    • Succession Planning: Avoid burnout by rotating leadership roles.

    • Member Education: Continuous training in both creative and co-op management skills.

  • Outline sustainability (future funding, partnerships, policy alignment).

• Financials/Sustainability

  • Financial health: Clear, accurate budgets and income sources. Realistic + contingency plan for shortfalls.

    • They want transparency and assurance that funds are managed responsibly.

  • Diversify revenue streams: Avoid over-relying on income from 1 source.

    • Secure commercial contracts with agencies, broadcasters, or gaming studios.

    • Training & Workshops: Offer animation courses for schools or community groups.

    • IP Development: Create original content for streaming platforms or festivals.

    • Social Enterprise & Creative Grants.

    • Crowdfunding & Patronage: Platforms like Patreon for creative projects.

  • Risk mitigation: Plans for fundraising gaps or unexpected costs.

  • Governance strength: Strong governance is key for sustainability. Board succession planning and compliance.

  • Sustainability beyond the fund: Future revenue streams, partnerships, earned income, or policy integration.

  • Capacity building: Willingness to leverage supports for long-term growth.

I know this is a lot, but it's good to start thinking of these key questions now and agreeing on your approach, before being put on-the-spot when you get the opportunity to interview for funding.

Please reach out anytime, I'm eager to support. Connect and message me on Linked-in: Isabel Power | LinkedIn