How to Write an Arts Education Grant Proposal
Writing a grant proposal for an arts education organization isn't difficult per se, but the applicant must follow guidelines set forth by the donor or risk having it ignored and missing out on a funding opportunity. Concise writing, data to back up any claims of program outcomes, testimonials from students, good grammar and zero spelling errors will not only get the attention of the donor but also increase chances of receiving a grant.
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Things You'll Need
- Application requirements from donor
- Word processing software
- Testimonials, outcome data, budgets and tax-exempt forms
Instructions
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Identify a donor that gives to arts education programs. Do not consider applying to a donor that funds something outside the scope of arts education since your application will be ignored. Research application deadlines to allow enough time for your application to be reviewed and considered. Research geographical giving areas to be certain your arts education organization meets those requirements.
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Research application guidelines, whether it's a private donor, foundation, federal or state funding source. This is the most important part of the process. Be sure your program or organization meets the general requirements, such as nonprofit and tax-exempt status. If your organization is of a religious nature, many foundations will not consider your application. If you cannot find the guidelines on a website or through donor directories, call the funding organization. Introduce yourself. Tell them about your organization and program, and ask if it would be possible to submit an application. Then ask to receive the guidelines.
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Write the required sections of the proposal according to guidelines in a clear, concise and easy-to-understand narrative. The person(s) reading your proposal are reading many others, and you want yours to stand out for clarity. This is not the time to experiment with creative writing. The usual sections in a proposal include the organization's mission and history, the actual funding request (in dollars), the program the request is for, goals and objectives, a summary and attached budget and other required documentation.
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Submit substantial, informative and accurate data about program goals and results. Keep in mind that since the arts are not measured through test scores, you need to prove that your program and funding request not only is valid but also has a direct impact on learning in the arts. Use numbers and percentages when possible, such as "Our programs directly impact 5,000 K-12 students each year, 75 percent of whom represent underserved populations."
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Research and calendar follow-up dates and requirements. An interview or visit to your organization may be required after the application is submitted. Funding organizations may want to observe some arts education programs. You may be asked to submit amended or supplemental materials. Always submit what is asked of you, and do so in a professional and courteous manner.
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Tips & Warnings
Provide the funding organization with whatever documentation it requests. Keep in mind that you want to make a good impression and represent your program with the utmost professionalism.
State and federal arts education grant proposals can be long and somewhat complicated. There is usually a designated representative for the arts education funding branch who can assist you in completing the application.
Follow the guidelines exactly, even if you don't think some of them necessary. If the application says to submit 10 copies, collated and double-sided, then do that. If the guidelines state that you must submit three marketing samples in one single set, do not send four samples. Send only what is required for attachments.
Some funding organizations require a "letter of intent." This is a one-page, concise letter that describes your organization and arts education program. If a letter of intent (LOI) is required before submitting a proposal, send the LOI. Do NOT send a full proposal. Funding organizations do this to see if your organization and program is of interest. If it is, the proposal is then requested of you.
If you've accurately researched deadlines and follow-up dates, you'll know when to expect to hear back regarding your application. If you have those dates, do not call the funding organization. However, if those dates pass, you can call and inquire as to the status of your application.
Submit the application in the format required. If a funding organization requires online applications and submissions only, do not send hard copies.
