Application Development Framework

Securing funding for sport-for-development programmes is a competitive process that requires organisations to clearly articulate their work, demonstrate need and present credible evidence of impact.

While many unions deliver meaningful and impactful programmes, translating this work into strong, structured funding applications can be a significant challenge.

This framework has been developed to support rugby unions and delivery organisations in strengthening the quality of their sport-for-development funding applications.

It provides practical, step-by-step guidance on how to present key components of an application, ensuring that proposals are clear, coherent and aligned with funder expectations.

Grounded in sport-for-development principles, the framework emphasises the importance of positioning rugby not simply as a participation activity, but as a tool to achieve broader social outcomes such as youth development, gender equity, inclusion and community wellbeing. It guides users in demonstrating how their programmes respond to real community needs and how proposed activities lead to meaningful and measurable change.

The document outlines the core elements of a strong application, including organisational overview, needs analysis, programme design, outcomes, impact measurement and sustainability. Each section is supported by practical guidance, examples and common pitfalls to help organisations improve clarity, strengthen credibility and ensure alignment across their application.

By using this framework, unions and delivery partners will be better equipped to communicate the value of their work, develop high-quality funding proposals and increase their ability to secure investment for sustainable, development-focused programmes.

Download the following documents for more information and practical advice.