Tips for a Stronger Application
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Be informed.
Before filling out the application, read the available information about the award program: Grant & Scholarship GUIDELINES and WORKSHEET.
Pace yourself.
Use the WORKSHEET to start laying out the ideas of your proposal—from the narrative sections to the budget. Don’t wait until the last minute to start filling it out. Remember you will need to submit 5-10 JPEGS, an artist statement, and possibly a letter of support. Collecting these bits and pieces takes time. If your application requires a letter of reference or host letter, contact the person you are asking for the letter as soon as possible to give them ample time.
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Take action.
See your application as an action plan for realizing your goals. Once you lay out your ideas, use your narrative as a guide to make your budget.
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Be realistic.
Can you achieve your goals given the money and time constraints? Craft your budget thoughtfully. How much will your project really cost? What other resources will help make your proposal a success?
Iron out the kinks.
First write the narrative sections in a program like Word, Pages, or Google Docs. Use Spell Check or Grammarly then cut and paste your narrative sections into the online application.
Represent yourself well.
The application offers different ways for you to share details about you and your work through written word, images, video, and supporting documents - some required and some optional. Keep in mind that the panelists who make the award recommendations spend about 20 minutes reviewing each application, so be selective about your content to use this time well.
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Get feedback.
Show a draft of your application to another artist, trusted friend, or Foundation staff to get feedback. Other people may see holes in your proposal and can help you clarify fuzzy areas. Schedule a One-on-One Review to discuss your ideas and review draft materials with Foundation staff or a mentoring artist.
Believe in yourself.
Have confidence in yourself and the potential of your ideas.