In planning the project, it is necessary to consult widely, including for example:

• Devon Reinvestment Service worker
• Devon County Council Directorates
• District Council
• Other potential partner organisations
• Local groups and networks
• Local and regional organisations
• Community Groups (such as ‘planning for real’ and surveys)
• Business (such as through surveys, consultation events)
• Potential beneficiaries

The aim of this networking and consultation will be to:

• Seek advice on the wider context for your project within the area / region
• Find details of related projects
• Establish exactly what the aims of the project are and why it is needed
• Identify potential sources of matching funding
• Gather data and research from local and regional organisations, communities and local businesses to justify the need for and therefore the likely success of the project.
• Obtain advice and confirmation from the potential beneficiaries of the project to ensure the project will meet their needs. How will they be involved in the development of the project?

Other points to consider

• In planning a project make sure that all partners are clear in understanding how they fit into the development and management of the project, and what their responsibilities will be for monitoring and in meeting the funding requirements of the project.
• How do you plan to measure the outputs of the project and the wider impacts? Are all of the partners aware of their role in this?
• Does the project have an exit strategy?