We all know the stereotype of the “struggling artist”. It can be a little scary out there when you are constantly putting yourself on the line for little to no reward! (I. know. this. feeling.)
If you’re an artist reading this, then I’m going to go out on a limb and say that you have spent many hours working “for free”. I know I have! My passion for my art has often meant forgoing steady pay for a chance to create.
But you know what? I’m tired of the “struggling artist” stereotype! One of my missions as a creative consultant is to help artists secure funding for their work so they can spend more time creating, and less time making sure their bills are paid.
Are you an artist reading this? Here’s what I can do for you (starting today) to share the love: I’ll be writing a weekly tip list with 5 grant funding opportunities for artists at all levels and of all disciplines!
Feel free to ask questions, and keep on checking my blog (
5 Artist Grants to Help You Thrive!
Artist Opp #1 -- THE AWESOME FOUNDATION
ABOUT The Awesome Foundation is a global community advancing the interest of awesome in the universe. They make small, $1,000 grants every month to awesome projects/art that solve a problem, cultivate community, and spread joy.
AMOUNT $1,000
DISCIPLINES FUNDED Any, just make sure you’re awesome.
DEADLINE Ongoing, multiple chapters awarding grants awarded every month.
Artist Opp #2 -- THE CLARK HULINGS FUND
ABOUT The Clark Hulings Fund for visual artists runs a Business Accelerator Program to help artists be the ultimate entrepeneurs by imparting business development skills. They say that they make working artists thriving artists. Grantees benefit from a suite of professional development services and expertise!
“Art is not a charity,” says CHF Director Elizabeth Hulings, “and artists deserve every opportunity to earn a living from their work. To do this, business expertise is just as vital as creativity and artistic technique.”
AMOUNT Up to $10,000
DISCIPLINES FUNDED Visual arts.
DEADLINE September 2018
Artist Opp #3 -- CREATIVE CAPITAL
ABOUT Creative Capital invests in artists who shape the future. They support innovative and adventurous artists across the country through funding, counsel, and career development services. Their philanthropic approach helps artists of all disciplines realize their dreams and build a sustainable business. Please note: this one is for artists who have been making art for at least 5 years! :)
AMOUNT Initial award of $10,000 with possibility of expanding grant to $50,000. Additional opportunity for up to $45,000 in professional services.
DISCIPLINES FUNDED Any (performing + visual)
DEADLINE March 2018
Artist Opp #4 -- THE PUFFIN FOUNDATION
ABOUT The Puffin Foundation strives to open the doors of artistic expression by providing grants to artists and art organizations who are often excluded from mainstream opportunities due to their race, gender, or social philosophy.
AMOUNT Around $2,500.
DISCIPLINES FUNDED Any (they request different disciplines in different funding cycles!)
DEADLINE Application available in September for Fine Arts and Film.
Artist Opp #5 -- NEW ENGLAND FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS (NEFA)
ABOUT NEFA is a large foundation dedicated to cultivating and promoting the arts. Their grant programs include options for Dance, Theatre, Music, International Engagement, Native American Arts, Public Art, and Performance Touring.
AMOUNT Initial grants start in the $20,000-$40,000 range. Supplementary funding is often provided once an applicant is working with the foundation--it is not uncommon for a grantee to receive a total package over $100,000. I have managed this grant for several artists, and it is awesome!
DISCIPLINES FUNDED Many, see above!
DEADLINE Various deadlines for different programs.
Hi friend! Thanks for stopping by, I’m really glad you’re here!
I’m an artist, writer, and creative consultant based in the Pacific Northwest. I see steemit as an incredible asset to artists and creatives as a way to share their work and connect with like-minded people. You can check out my intro post, read more about the theatre projects I work on, or follow me! I’m especially interested in finding other performing artists on this site. If that’s you, please say hello! See you around the steemosphere!
