Project Funding

The LMC Development Grant Scheme supports the development and/or increase the effectiveness of LMCs, and their support to General Practice and GPs. We believe that empowering LMC initiatives leads to projects reaching their full potential.

The purpose of this fund is to support the development and/or increase the effectiveness of LMCs (and therefore contribute to the effective support by LMCs to General Practice and GPs).

This is a fund for ‘projects’ over and above what might be considered to be ‘normal LMC business’ and not intended to fund recurring expenditure, and the scheme is focussed on providing Grants (not Loans or Investments) to LMCs.

Collaboration between LMCs would be particularly welcome.

Four step funding process

Develop and plan your idea. In developing your project plan, check out the list below to make sure your project goals align with our criteria.
Access and complete your application form. You can access the form below or contact the Grants Administrator, who can answer queries and support you with your application.
Submit your application. Send in your applications to the Grants Administrator.
Hear back from us. You will hear back from us within 28 days of receiving your application.

YOUR Funding application checklist

If you have an idea for a project that will support the development of LMCs and/or increase its’ effectiveness, we encourage you to apply for funding. Below are the criteria for your project to address in your application to GPDF.

ESSENTIAL AND DESIRABLE CRITERIA

Essential: The results, outcomes, findings, or experiences should be transferable across multiple LMCs. Cost estimates need to be inclusive of VAT.
Desirable: Projects should promote collaboration across LMCs, go beyond regular LMC work, increase efficiency, innovation, or shared good practices, and they should be replicable in developed nations.

LIKELY TO NOT BE FUNDED

Areas of activity within the BMA remit (including GPCs), political activity, subsidies to LMC or individual practice experiencing financial challenges, activity in the scope of LMC normal business, and LMC employment costs will not be funded.

How to apply

We love hearing your ideas and can help you to determine if it would be a viable project. We aim to make the process as easy, transparent, and fair as possible, so please reach out to us.

The funding application form can be found here.

The full details of GPDF providing a grant towards LMC projects can be found here.

For queries relating to the application and funding process, please contact the Grants Administrator at applications@gpdf.org.uk

Case studies

An example of a recent project that we proudly support is the LMC Support Network.

The LMC Support Network

PDF | Website

GP Partnership Competency Self Assessment Tool

PDF

FAQs

Is the application process different for large projects?

The process is intended to be the same, but a greater amount of detail is likely to be required for larger projects.

What if the project fails to deliver the expected benefits, would the LMC have to repay the Grant?

If a project is struggling to reach the expected targets, please do reach out to us as soon as possible to help find a solution.

We understand that not every project will be a success and unsuccessful projects can still have valuable learning from the process. If key learning points from the project can be shared amongst other LMCs, we would like to learn more about it in the final report. Upon review, it may be that the Board decides a project is unsuccessful with no significant learning points. However, an appeal can be made after the Board’s decision.

What if I don’t need or use all of the Grant (e.g. the project becomes unachievable for any reason)?

Any unused funds should be returned to GPDF. We will ask for you to share a report with us or an explanation as to the changes that occurred. Sharing this information can help us to better evaluate LMC projects in the future.

Will GPDF provide all of the Grant up-front?

The funds will be distributed in one transaction once the project is approved.

Why does GPDF need interim reports / final report on the outcome of the project?

GPDF views our role as the funder, not a micromanager, so the LMC proposing the project will be responsible for the project going forward, with minor caveats:

GPDF loves seeing people’s passion projects recognised and may like to use successful applications as a case study on GPDF website. Case studies promote the project itself and can entice other people to apply for GPDF funding for their own project!
You may be asked to submit a report of progress to GPDF, for inclusion in the Financial Commentary to the Board at the end of February, May, August, and November of each year during which funding is provided.
GPDF may need to occasionally review or audit expenditure.

I have an idea, but not sure if would be successful in getting a Grant. Can I speak with someone?

Yes, you can contact the Grants Administrator at mail@gpdf.org.uk who can help answer or direct you to the right person to discuss.

Will GPDF consider contributing jointly to a project with other organisations (e.g. NHS / LMCs)?

Yes, if the project falls within the objectives and purpose of this fund, GPDF will consider it.

Can I put in a joint application with other LMCs?

Yes. Bids from consortia are most welcome, ideally with one LMC as a ‘lead’ contact.