The method by which free money is obtained from private foundations, federal, state or local
philanthropic entities. Most of these agencies require that you be a
501(c)3 tax exempt organization. (This means
not-for-profit.)
Grant proposals from
non-profit organizations usually require that the applicant clearly describe the
organization’s
history,
mission,
vision. After that portion is complete, then the applicant clearly describes the purpose for which funds will be used. In the case of an arts non-profit this would include:
programming,
honorariums, costs associated with mounting a production, salaries,
publicity, and operational expenses. Next, the applicant tells these people why they are
qualified to do what they do. This includes:
resumes of key
personnel,
marketing plan, reviews of past
performances and a listing of the organization’s
Board of Directors.
There are limited numbers of grants out there which support individuals. These are usually for
students,
artists and researchers. These usually depend on sample work and other eligibility qualifications. This does not mean that individuals can not benefit from free money for organizations. An individual can approach a non-profit for a specific project. The non-profit can then
conduit the money for them by acting as a
fiscal agent.
Grant proposals are hard, tedious work, however, they certainly beat having a
day job.