Kat:
AS far as editing goes even though it is an oral history don't be afraid to cuts parts of the story that aren't gemain to where it's going. If you're tied into a word count and you go over chances are the editor won't bother reading it unles you are well known (and Liked) by him/her. Can't help with the funding but I hope you make a good go of the project. Best of luck and feel free to pick my brain Neil