Funding for your projects can get overwhelming from a financial standpoint. A great way to fund your project is to have a music grant. Grants come in all different shapes and sizes. Where you live, your credentials, and the amount that the issuer is willing to fund your project. You will need to make a compelling case in order to receive a grant, but it can be done with following process.
What Is A Grant?
"Grants are funds given by an entity – frequently, a public body, charitable foundation, or a specialized grant-making institution – to an individual or another entity for a specific purpose linked to public benefit."
This is basically saying that an organization has money to use on creative projects or events in order to benefit their community.
Step-By-Step Guide On Music Grants Funding Your Project
1. Research Your Area
Depending on what city you live in will determine the funds available for music grants. All cities will have requirements for you to meet, but some will be different than others. Scan through the different programs you are eligible for, where you live, and your background.
2. Arrange Meetings With Granting Agents
We recommend a phone call if you are feeling everything out at first. We suggest not stoping at any one or two requirements that you may not meet however. Sitting in person with a granting agent will give you a better chance to receive one, even if you fail to meet one of the requirements. Show your genuine interest and make your case in person rather than on the phone.
Make sure that you come prepared when it comes to an in person meeting. Give them a list of the things you will use the funds for and why it matters to their community to give you this opportunity.
3. Prepare Your Application
The program that's the right fit for you will require an application. Usually this is simple by going through their application process to fill out the given fields required to review your eligibility.
4. Submit Your Application
Be sure to go over your checklist to give them all the materials needed for the project. It is suggested that you attach a personal letter or note to their office to the person who will be reviewing your application thanking them for their time and consideration.
5. You've Been Accepted... Now What?
After you are accepted, you will most likely need to provide a thorough report of your project. Either a milestone report or an end of project report to conclude that the funds have been used for the purpose agreed upon by you and the granting agency.
Conclusion
Grants can be a great way for you to fund a project. Once you are accepted into a program that has allowed you to make this project, build a long lasting relationship with the people in the organization. You most likely won't end your career after this one project. An on going relationship with an organization that knows you will put their funds to good use for the betterment of their community can be great for your music career.
If this was helpful feel free to share it with someone you know who could use a music grant!