There are so many opportunities available for funding in the arts. I have written a few grants and have been very fortunate to have received financing for all my projects. There are individual artist grants for small scale projects to group grants for larger scale visions. A great place to start looking for options that best fit the vision you have for your projects is browsing the sites of government, non-profit and corporate funders. Networking with other artists and art organizations can be also a great way to obtain information about different funding sources. 

I found it really helpful to attend grant writing workshops as well as communicate with the program officers. I was granted a wealth of information as well as tips for filling out the applications. They really are there to help make the application process less overwhelming, by providing feedback and even reviewing rough drafts. Stay connected with your potential funders.


Remember to give yourself plenty of time to work on a grant application. Looking at a mound of paperwork seemed insurmountable so I broke up the work and tackled it one section at a time. I tailored the content for each project but I was always very clear and concise while presenting the concepts and the steps for achieving my goals. I had realistic budgets and I made certain that the revenues and the expenses balanced out. I secured in kind donations and included other sources of funding to match the grant requirements. I answered all the questions and did not cut corners. I dotted all the i’s and crossed all the t’s. I dedicated a few hours everyday until I completed the process and felt I had a well-written proposal; simple, intentional and memorable.   

My hard work paid off, as result I had the opportunity to bring the following projects and collaborations to life!