‘In-kind’ support

‘'In-kind’ support is the donation or provision of goods or services other than cash contributions.

When applying for a grant you may be asked about co-contributions and you may even be able to include in-kind support. Co-contributions are in addition to the amount you are applying for in the grant.

Here are two examples:

• A football club needs new uniforms including a new logo design, purchase of the uniforms, screen printing and shipping costs. The total cost would normally be $2,000, however a graphic designer associated with the club has offered to do the logo design for free, and the local accountant has offered to pay for half of the uniforms. This brings the shortfall to $1,200, which is what needs to be requested from the grant provider. The graphic designer’s time is in-kind support, and the accountant’s donation is a co-contribution.

• A community organisation is refurbishing a hall. They are applying for a $5,000 grant so that they can purchase furniture. Their co-contributions include donated time (volunteers and tradespeople) which is being provided in-kind, donated materials, community donations, and an additional grant.

It’s important to include in-kind support as a co-contribution when permitted. Providing a full picture of your project budget will demonstrate to the funding provider that you have realistically assessed all of the inputs required to complete your project.

Pay particular attention to what you will be contributing and if permitted, ensure you include project management (contractor / staff time) and overheads in your itemised budget. You may be securing funds to cover these costs, or you may be providing these in-kind.

Always make sure you’ve read the grant guidelines and application to understand what budget information you need to provide. If you have questions about in-kind support, reach out to the funding provider directly.