Writing Funding Applications using ChatGPT AI Technology

I spent today at the Funding Fair at Windsor Racecourse. Vicky from Slough CVS led the way, introducing Asma Aziz, acting CEO for SVCS to share her thoughts and ideas on how to create a solid funding application.

The key learnings were around ensuring you share your passion and beliefs, as these are what make you different. And channel the American gene, as they know how to tell a story, especially a BIG one 😉

Collaborate with others as it can give you an advantage, be clear and concise but don’t forget the numbers.

One lady shared her experience of Lottery Funding. Ellie shared how to get the most from Berkshire Community Foundation, Rebecca her story on a special grant for prams for kids at the Baby Bank. Followed by James giving insight into #OneSlough .

They were all followed by Christian Noll, ex IBM Director, now Director of Lambourn Junction Community Interest Company, looking to give back to the community having found himself retiring to Lambourn… bet that wasn’t on his 15 year plan 😉

ChatGBT 4.0 is his new bag and helping community groups make the most of it to secure grant funding applications was his teachings today. He’s open to approaches from Berkshire based groups, you’ll find him on LinkedIn.

It was interesting and I enjoyed his presentation style. Got me thinking, I’d like to get my head around Community Capital, Social Value and how they balance each other.

I asked ChatGBT and here is what it said…

COMMUNITY CAPITAL

Community capital refers to the collective resources—both tangible and intangible—that strengthen a community and improve the well-being of its members. It includes:

1. Social Capital – The relationships, networks, and trust among community members that enable cooperation and mutual support.
2. Human Capital – The skills, knowledge, and abilities of individuals that contribute to the community’s overall strength.
3. Cultural Capital – The shared traditions, values, and heritage that create a sense of identity and belonging.
4. Economic Capital – Financial resources, local businesses, and investments that drive community prosperity.
5. Built Capital – Physical infrastructure like roads, parks, schools, and community centers that support social and economic life.
6. Natural Capital – Environmental assets such as green spaces, clean air, and water that impact quality of life.
7. Political Capital – The ability of the community to influence decision-making and advocate for its needs.

SOCIAL VALUE

Social value refers to the broader benefits that an activity, organization, or policy brings to society beyond just financial profit. It includes positive impacts on people, communities, and the environment.

Key Aspects of Social Value:

1. Economic Well-being – Creating local jobs, supporting small businesses, and boosting the economy.
2. Social Well-being – Improving health, education, and quality of life for individuals and communities.
3. Environmental Impact – Reducing carbon footprints, promoting sustainability, and protecting natural resources.
4. Equity & Inclusion – Ensuring fair access to opportunities and supporting marginalized groups.
5. Stronger Communities – Encouraging volunteering, social cohesion, and civic engagement.

Many organizations now measure social value to ensure their work benefits society, not just their bottom line.

HOW COMMUNITY CAPITAL AND SOCIAL VALUE CONNECT

Visual representation of the relationship between Community Capital and Social Value with a few spellos but hey, we get the gist.

• Community capital is a foundation that enables social value.
• Social value is the outcome that strengthens community capital over time.

For example, if a company funds a community garden, it increases natural capital (green space), social capital (people working together), and human capital (gardening skills). The overall social value would be improved health, well-being, and community cohesion.

Thank you.

Jon Davey
Community Champion
I Love Windsor CIC
07717 820823