Application Process

How does the Project Giving Back selection process relate to the RHS Selection Process?

Project Giving Back is not an alternative to the RHS selection process. Our aim is to identify interesting designers, nurseries and horticultural groups and encourage them to apply for PGB funding in partnership with a good cause. If you are successful in being selected by Project Giving Back, you will still need to apply to the RHS in the usual way and PGB funding is not a guarantee of space allocation at the show.


Communications

How do exhibitors attract press coverage? 

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show attracts a huge amount of media interest. If your garden is selected by the RHS for the show, the good cause and designer will have the chance to promote their story to the media and work with the RHS press office to maximise media opportunities. They will be invited to organise a photo call on the garden on press day and take advantage of the many other media opportunities available at the show. Any press activity should be coordinated in conversation with the RHS press office. Charities are encouraged to find interesting and creative ways to get their message across and the story behind the garden is often of interest to a wide variety of media.

Who will manage the PR & marketing for the garden if we are awarded PGB funding?

The charitable organisation benefitting from the garden funded by PGB will be responsible for all PR and marketing in the lead up to and during the show. The RHS Press Office team will provide support throughout the process, with additional guidance from the PGB team. However, the PGB funding will not cover PR & marketing costs and so this should be considered when applying for funding.

Financials

What does a Project Giving Back grant cover? 

Successful applicants are expected to work with a UK-based good cause to create a really exciting exhibit. The application will require costings for your exhibit, transport and accommodation for essential staff.  You will be required to keep within the approved budget, which does not include entertainment costs or show tickets. All other costs will need to be budgeted for by the charity partner. PGB will provide more detailed guidance for charities at the application stage.

Are charities/garden designers given free show tickets?  

Show exhibitors are allocated a certain number of badges to allow contractors and staff to build and maintain the garden throughout the build up and show week. This allows designers and charities to engage with show visitors. Should an exhibitor wish to entertain guests or host events at the show, they will need to purchase RHS hospitality or show tickets outside of the Project Giving Back budget and make arrangements directly with the RHS.

Garden build & Logistics

What happens to the garden after the show?

Sustainability is extremely important to Project Giving Back and one of our funding requirements is that there is a relocation plan in place ahead of the show.We have allocated funds for the relocation of the gardens but garden teams must prove to us that they will be publicly accessible and/or provide a public benefit as a lasting legacy. We strongly advise you consider any planning consent, community engagement, local consultation etc that might need to happen ahead of a garden being relocated after the show. PGB can link you with people who have successfully managed Chelsea garden relocations if you need advice and support.

What happens to furniture, artwork or crafts pieces displayed after the show?  

Any money from the sale of components from your garden, not on loan, should be for the sole benefit of the charity involved.

Will Project Giving Back supported gardens be judged?

Yes. All Project Giving Back supported gardens accepted by the RHS for exhibit at the show will be judged.