What do you need to take into account when applying?

If you're submitting applications to the Nordic countries, the Nordic involvement in the project has to be clear. I've realised that things tend to go in your favour if you've got specific names involved by the time you even apply, whether they're artists, partners or performers. And the costs connected to them have to be spelt out – accommodation, transport and performance fees, all listed separately. It doesn't even matter really if the fee for one of the performers seems ridiculously high. The people making the decisions know what the situation's like, and if you give them enough justification, they'll support it.

It doesn't seem to be enough if your description is along the lines of "brass bands to be invited from Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland". If you can't name names, the chances of getting a grant are slim. That said, no one seems to mind if the name that ends up taking part in the project is different from the one you originally included. The most important thing is that they're just as good and that the box is ticked that they're from one of the Nordic countries.

Which of your projects has been the most memorable?

The applications I've submitted to Nordic funds have generally all meant a great deal to me, so it's hard to rank them. But the people who took part in it still speak very highly of the international cultural tourism conference in Pärnu and keep asking me when the next one's going to be. A lot of its success was down to the presenters who came along from the Nordic countries, and the fact that it was possible to get them thanks to the support we were granted.

Do you have any recommendations for other applicants?

Don't leave submitting your application to the last minute! I've learnt first-hand how frustrating it can be to have your Internet connection drop out or for there to be a blackout right when you least need it.

Drafting your applications online is a blessing. Having to fit in with the word limit concentrates your thoughts and forces you to really think about what it is you're submitting. Speaking of which, make sure you keep saving every page you're working on, and save the whole thing before logging out or taking a break to gather your thoughts. If you don't, you might find you have to start from scratch.