Proper research is extremely important, not just into the company but also any personal links you have with it. Find out who you know who might have links there; with management staff, employees, suppliers, personal contacts etc. Try to find out what personal interests the descision-makers have, and pitch your appeal to them.

Ideally, initial contact should be made through a personal contact, but failing that you will have to come up with another link. The first step would be to find out who is responsible for giving at the company, their name and job title, what information they can send you about the company, timetables for application and whether they would be interested in coming to see your work (either in your studio or in an exhibition). This initial stage can take a long time, and it might be in your best interests to invite representatives to private views or exhibitions of your work before making your first appeal. Most will not consider circular appeals, and with good reason; they show no particular interest in the company or individual being approached, only the would-be recipient of the support. Letters should prove as much of a relationship as possible between you and the company; if there is no relationship, you might reconsider applying.

You must be clear as to why and when you need the support, especially your timetable, the benefits to you and others, how budgets will be spent and what the company will get in return - an artwork, report, photographs, exhibition, private event for staff, or just a general feeling of goodwill? Companies (and charities) like to fund projects, so avoid too much administration costs in your budget proposal, but do include a fee. Check any available criteria for funding and exclude what is not relevant; travel, expenses, fees etc.

Persistence, when handled correctly, can pay dividends; don't assume that 'no' means 'never'. Go back to them during the next financial year, and mention that you have approached them before, and that you are now presenting something of (hopefully) more interest. Consider previous, rejected applications as further research. Sometimes companies will say all their funds are committed, so apply at a better time next year; but this might be an excuse for them not wanting to fund you at all.