The Community
5
Finding Support
Overview
In this chapter, you learn how to…
- Identify appropriate funders for your project
- Explain importance of alignment between a funder’s goals and your values and project outcomes
- List strategies to build relationships and connect with potential funders
Once you have an idea about what you want to do for your project and who you want to reach, the next step is to find the funding to make it happen. While this chapter focuses on identifying grantors, the ideas apply to many types of funders, such as foundations, artists’ funds, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and more. It’s also important to remember that support can extend beyond cash. Partner organizations and other collaborators can often provide marketing, services, space, supplies, and volunteers that are critical to project execution (also known as in-kind support—we’ll talk about this more in Chapter 8: Building a Project Budget). As the proverb goes, “It takes a village.”
Where To Look
You might wonder where to start. Fortunately, many avenues are available to find grant funders. We’ve included a list of ideas below to get your search off the ground. These strategies can be effective for seeking out funders, organizational partners, and other collaborators for your project.
Artists in Action
“You’ve got to advocate for yourself in that way and understand that if you’re part of the whole as an artist, you are part of the whole movement, which includes our responsibility to make sure people understand the value of what you’re doing.”
– Jeannie Howe
“Number one, do your research, research, research, research.”
– Khandeya Sheppard
Initial Search Sources
Visit Your Local Library
Your local public or academic library may have access to subscription resources or books that can help you identify potential funders (Beeching, 2010). For example, Candid’s Foundation Directory Online[1] is a subscription database used by professional fundraisers. Candid also provides a wide variety of training virtually and in-person.
There’s a good chance someone in your artistic community has some experience, knowledge, or connections to share. Plus, by letting people know what you’re excited about, you can build a community of support around your work and your project.
Explore Resources Provided by Local Arts Hubs
Many cities have local arts nonprofits that promote and support other arts organizations in the area. One example is Greater Baltimore Cultural Alliance[2] based in Baltimore, Maryland. Organizations like these often compile resources for artists, provide opportunities for connection between local artists and organizations, and sometimes offer grants themselves.
Search for Artist Grants Awards Locally and Nationally
There are many competitive grants and awards available throughout the country. For example, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts[3] makes grants to visual artists and has a regional regranting program. In Baltimore, The Rubys Artist