GARA FAQs

The GARA Black Annual Fund was established following the 2019 GARA occupation at Goldsmiths, University of London. It is an annual fund of £20,000 set aside to support projects, events, and initiatives that empower Black students and local Black community members, promote anti-racism, and celebrate Black culture and creativity.

Eligible applicants include:

• Black students currently enrolled at Goldsmiths.

• Black alumni of Goldsmiths with a demonstrable connection to the student or local community.

• Members of the local Black community

The fund supports projects and events that:

• Empower Black students and/or local Black communities.

• Foster anti-racist education and action.

• Celebrate and promote Black culture, history, and creativity.

• Provide platforms for Black voices and leadership.

Examples include:

• Cultural events (performances, exhibitions, film screenings)

• Workshops, talks, and seminars with anti-racist themes

• Community engagement projects

• Creative projects with tangible deliverables (e.g., publications, performances)

Please note: Coursework, programme-related projects, or graded projects are not eligible. 

• Coursework, programme-related projects, or graded projects. 

• Society-led projects eligible for the Students’ Union Society Grant

• Repeat applications for the same project in the same funding cycle

• Applications lacking sufficient information or with incomplete budgets

• Projects that do not align with GARA values

• Requests for personal financial gain

• Activities primarily benefiting external parties

• Duplicate or multiple applications for overlapping projects

• Retrospective funding requests

Some examples include

• Transport costs for speakers/facilitators (within the UK only)

• Materials and supplies directly used in the project

• Catering (reasonable cost per person, no alcohol; include supplier quotes)

• Accessibility costs (e.g., BSL interpreters, wheelchair access)

• Equipment hire if essential and unavailable through Goldsmiths or the Students’ Union, and directly for project only, not for personal use

The fund cannot cover:

• First-class, premium, or international travel

• Accommodation costs

• Personal expenses for personal use

• Academic tuition or coursework-related costs

• Cash gifts, donations, or financial aid

• Long-term capital purchases (e.g., laptops, furniture)

• Activities that benefit primarily external organisations or individuals

Complete the GARA Fund application form.

Include a detailed proposal covering:

• Project overview and aims

• Rationale for funding

• Organisers and participants

• Location and timeline

• Itemised budget

• Eligibility statement

• Impact on the Goldsmiths/local community

Applications may be:

• Approved (Full Funding): Full requested amount granted.

• Approved (Partial Funding): Reduced funding awarded; adjustments to the project plan may be required.

• More Information Needed: Panel requests clarification or additional details. Only one opportunity provided.

• Not Approved/Rejected: Application declined; feedback may be provided.

• Applicants typically receive a response within 3-4 weeks of submission.

• Urgent requests may be considered, but applicants must provide sufficient lead time.

• If approved, payment processing may take up to 3 weeks after contract signing.

In addition to the limits on what costs the fund can cover: 

• Funds must benefit Black students and/or local Black communities as described in the proposal.

• Misuse, exclusion, or discriminatory practices are not permitted.

• Applicants must avoid suppliers or activities that are unethical or harmful 

• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted as part of funded catering.

Email: welfare.officer@goldsmithssu.org