Writing an application for an arts grant can be daunting, especially if you’re new to the process. We’ve created a list of tips for writing your arts grant application with examples of what to do, and what not to do to prepare the best possible grant application.
Tip #1: Start strong!
From the very beginning, be clear about exactly what project you’re applying for. If you get stuck, try to answer the 5 W’s: What are you going to do? When will it happen? Where will it happen? Who will you do it with? And, why are you doing it?
✔️ Like this:
“Over the next 12 months, I am going to paint 10 large-scale (4′ x 6′) abstract acrylic paintings on canvas that explore and respond to the recent extinction of the dodo bird.”
❌ Not like this:
“Dodo birds are ugly creatures, gone now but once prolific, and yet we do not mourn their passing as our contemporary world is built upon the commercialization of beauty.”
Tip #2: Use plain language
Avoid using complicated terms and phrases, or language that only other people working in your artistic medium would understand (also known as “art speak”). Many grant assessment panels include people from different artistic disciplines and educational backgrounds, so try to explain your project in a way that anyone can understand.
✔️ Like this:
“Using acrylic paint, local soils and found objects, the paintings explore our fears of aging in a capitalist society.”
❌ Not like this:
“This multi-modal and place-based work will engage with the (in)conclusivity of life, while inviting the viewer to critically reflect on the ways in which they practice kinship in ways that are antithetical to anthropocentric modes of being in relationships.”
Tip #3: Give concrete details
Try to be as specific as possible about your project by including as many specifics as you can, like dates, numbers, locations, and names of collaborators. This shows the grant assessment panel that you’ve planned your project thoroughly and leaves less room for the assessors to make assumptions or judgement calls.
✔️ Like this:
“Three local bands will perform in this concert including, jazz trio “ABC123,” the funk band “LMNOPop,” and the bluegrass quintet “XYZeds.”
❌ Not like this:
“The event will showcase exceptional local talent and will be a shining example of community collaboration.”
Tip #4: Show examples of your work
When including support material in your grant application, provide the grant assessors with actual samples of your work – not marketing or promotional materials.
✔️ Like this:
“I am including 45 pages from the first draft of my novel. This excerpt is from the mid-point of the story where the main character comes to realize the weight of their decision.”
❌ Not like this:
“I have attached a thumbnail version of the book cover, and photos from the last author reading I did.”
For more helpful tips on support material, check out 7 Ways to Improve Your Support Material.
Tip #5: Balance your budget
Make sure your grant’s revenues and expenses equal the same amount. MAC only funds not-for-profit projects, so you shouldn’t have any profit that is unaccounted for in your budget.
✔️ Like this:
Revenues:
MAC grant: $4,500
Ticket sales: $4,000
Total revenues: $8,500
Expenses:
Musician fees (12 x $500): $6,000
Venue rental: $1,000
Sound equipment rental: $1,000
Promotion: $500
Total expenses: $8,500
❌ Not like this:
Revenues:
MAC grant: $7,500
Ticket sales: $4,000
Total revenues: $11,500
Expenses:
Musician fees (12 x $500): $6,000
Venue rental: $1,000
Sound equipment rental: $1,000
Promotion: $500
Total expenses: $8,500
Profit: $3,000
For more helpful tips on putting together a budget, check out Build Your Best Arts Grant Budget.
We hope this blog has given you some helpful tips to write your best possible MAC grant application!
Have an idea for a topic we should cover on our blog? Let us know by emailing esaurette@artscouncil.mb.ca.
You can always book a consultation with a MAC program consultant to look over your application and give you feedback before you submit it! Visit our Contact Us page for more information.
