21 May Writing a Grant Application
Grant writing can seem like a daunting task, there’s lots of paperwork, moving parts and time investment in successfully submitting an application for funding. We’ve put together some tips and tricks for navigating grant writing which we hope will help you succeed in receiving funding for your artistic projects. We recommend all members review granting criteria and eligibility requirements before beginning your applications. Attending grant information sessions is also an excellent way to connect directly with granting officers and ask any questions you may have about the grant in question. Grant officers are available to answer your questions so do not hesitate to reach out to them directly as well. If you know of a resource that is not listed please let us know by emailing, operations@digitalartsresourcecentre.ca.
Grant writing Checklist:
- Give yourself adequate time (DARC recommends that you give yourself at least 4 weeks ahead of the deadline date to put your application together).
- Thoroughly read the grant guidelines (and write down any and all questions you have about the granting opportunity).
- Contact your grant officer/administrator and or attend a grant information session (ask all of your questions to someone on the inside).
- Articulate your artistic direction, vision and project goals.
- Ensure your language is clear and direct (avoid using vague language and answer each question or component in a direct and concise way).
- Detail your project plan (you want to make it as clear as possible how you will successfully execute your project from start to finish).
- Collect your support materials (your support materials should directly reflect your artistic capacity and ability to achieve your grant application. Do not share every artistic project you have ever done, support materials should be your MVP projects and or past projects that are relevant to your current grant application).
- Provide a realistic budget (make sure you reflect all project costs, donations, in-kind/waived expenses, etc., and have a section reserved for incidentals (if possible) as costs you do not anticipate will more than likely pop up).
- Book a slot with DARC's grant writing office hours and get some feedback on your application from DARC staff.
- Get feedback on your application from your artistic peers, mentors, community!
- Submit your application on time and in the correct formats (do not risk your hard work by not submitting the correct file types or in the requested delivery method).
- Celebrate! Even if you are not successful this time, you should celebrate your determination in applying.
- Regardless of whether you are successful or not in receiving funding, ask for feedback on your application.
GRANT INFORMATION SESSIONS
Canada Council for the Arts, Explore and Create Grants
Ontario Arts Council, Media Art Grants and Services
