How to Apply to Arts Organizations for Music Funding

How to Apply to Arts Organizations for Music FundingHow to Apply to Arts Organizations for Music FundingWhen it comes to your music project, chances are you have the idea, but you may be a little light on the cash to carry it out. Thats where music business kenntniserlangunging comes in. The process of obtaining funding from arts organizations is highly competitive and theres rarely enough money to go around. Dont expect to rely on loans and grants from arts groups as your projects sole or primary source of funding. And, keep in mind that depending on geography and other demographics, noeveryone has access to this sort of music industry funding. But if you do have access, loans and grants from arts organizations are worth seeking out as supplemental sources of income. Here are a few tips to get your application as ready as possible. Be Clear About Your Goals This may sound obvious, but clearly identifying your goals will help you decide where to apply for funding, and will help k eep you focused when going through the application process. Most funders will want a very specific project, so rather than looking for help funding my band youre better looking for something specific like funding the recording of an album or funding to publicize a tour. Get Used to Writing Your Proposal Succinctly This is useful because getting something written down is a good way to help you work out exactly what youre looking for funding for, and if you cant write it in fewer than 50 words, it may be too vague. Funders will want a brief description to help them get an idea of the project before they read the full application form, and to use in any reklame materials. The summary should explain what the project is, why the funder will fund it and what makes your project unique. Follow Directions Carefully Make sure you know exactly what the application process is for each organization and what the deadlines are. Most organizations will require you to fill out an application form. Read through the application form several times and make sure you understand exactly what they want for each part of the application. If you have any doubts or questions, contact them and ask. Up to 10 percent of applications are rejected because the applicant hasnt followed the correct application process. Most applications will require a detailed description of your project, including a specific budget. This description should explain what you are trying to achieve and why they should provide you funding to do it. Make sure this is detailed, but dont go into any more detail than theyve asked for. If they ask for one page, make sure you stick within that limit. The music business funders will likely be reviewing hundreds of applications, so dont overwhelm them with more information than theyve requested. Draw up a timeline for when certain aspects of the project will be completed. Its important to remember that fruchtwein funds will only fund new projects - that means projec ts that havent started by the time the application process has finished. Make sure youre timeline fits in with the funders criteria and is realistic, as it might form part of a legally binding agreement. Check and Double-Check When youve filled in your application, check the whole form through and ask someone to proofread it for you, before giving it one final read yourself. Almost all funders are oversubscribed, but no matter how worthy of funding your project is if you havent supplied all the details theyve asked for, your application may be rejected. When you send an application, send it at least a few days before the deadline to ensure it arrives in time. If possible, deliver the application in person. If sending it by mail, ideally send it by courier or by guaranteed delivery. Most organizations wont return submitted material, so dont send original documents. Most organizations will confirm theyve received your application. If you havent heard from the funder, theres no har m in checking in with them to confirm receipt, but dont pester them. It may be weeks or even months before a decision is made. In the meantime, make plans to continue with the project if the funding doesnt come through. If You Get Funding Congratulations on receiving funding. At this point, most funders will ask you to sign a formal contract stating what they will pay you, and when, and what they expect from you. If you think your project may change, make sure you keep the funders informed. Most funders will disburse monies when certain milestones are met, but some may not pay you until the project is completed, so be clear on the terms. If You Dont Get Funding Even if your project met all the criteria, it may not be funded. You should have a backup plan in case funding doesnt come through. Contact the organization and find out why your application failed, and if you can re-apply. Dont harass them, however. Theyll have lots of failed applicants, so their time is limited.