Frequently asked questions related to the LGA's match funding for behavioural insights projects.
What is behavioural insights?
You can view a full description of what behavioural insights is alongside LGA examples and case studies here.
Can we apply as a joint bid with another council?
We are keen to receive applications from groups of councils or those involving partner organisations. Please note – applications are limited to one per council, including where a council is a partner in a joint bid.
How innovative does our proposal need to be?
We are unable to match fund applications where the proposed project is too similar to a project already funded in previous phases of the programme. This is because the LGA is building an evidence base of behavioural insights in local government and requires a diverse portfolio of projects to support this.
Otherwise, we encourage applications which seek to address tricky social problems which local government has been grappling with.
How competitive is the grant funding?
The competition is tough to be successful in accessing the grant funding. The LGA were extremely oversubscribed last year. We encourage all applications to be well thought through and of a high standard.
How many rounds of funding have been run already?
We have run three cohorts of funding previously to this round which is the fourth cohort.
How many organisations will be successful in being awarded the grant funding?
Eight organisations will be awarded the funding in this cohort.
Can the £25,000 contribution from the organisation be in kind?
The £25,000 from the organisation (which is match funded by the LGA) must be monetary and not in kind e.g in the form of staff time. The reason for this is that behavioural insight trials cost up to £50,000 to run.
If successful, will I be required to attend the February kick off workshop?
Yes, there is a requirement for the Project Manager to make themselves available to travel to the LGA (Local Government Association, 18 Smith Square, Westminster, London, SW1P 3HZ) on February 27 2019. This will be an introductory session to the LGA programme, behavioural insights and an opportunity to meet the LGA officers and other organisations on the cohort.
Which organisations can apply for the grant funding?
- Any council (including all those not in membership of the Local Government Association)
- National Parks
- Fire and Rescue Services
If my authority has already received funding under a previous round of the LGA Behavioural Insights Programme, can I apply?
Regrettably, we will be looking to fund new authorities in order to give other organisations the opportunity.
Which internal stakeholders should I speak to before applying and who should form the project team?
- The Communications Officer/team
- The Data Protection Officer
- The organisation’s Chief Executive/Most Senior Officer
Do I need to gain the signature of the organisation’s most senior officer in order to apply for the grant?
Yes, a signature from your most senior officer in the organisation will be required to pursue the application.
How long should my application be?
Sufficient detail is required to make a good application but we ask that applications are kept clear and succinct. This means that applications should not exceed four pages of A4 but could be less than that.
