Arts councils need funding to operate and carry out their programs. Success relies on unlocking diverse funding streams. Once you have a strategic plan in place, start identifying potential partners and fundraising opportunities.
There are three main categories of financial support for arts councils:
- Earned revenue (for example, special events, merchandise sales)
- Private support (i.e., donations, membership dues and grants from private foundations)
- Public support (i.e., support from local, state and federal programs and grants)
Fundraising Best Practices
- Research funding opportunities: Identify grants, donations, sponsorships, and other sources of support specific to Native arts and culture.
- Develop budget proposals: Clearly outline your program needs, expenses, and expected outcomes.
- Cultivate relationships with funders: Network with grantmakers, philanthropic organizations, and individual donors.
- Leverage tribal resources: Explore potential funding from tribal government departments and cultural preservation programs.
Tips for Fundraising
- Set a Goal: How much money do you need to raise? What will you use the money for? These questions can be easily answered and further guided by the Strategic Plan.
- Identify the Target Audience: Who are you trying to reach with your fundraising efforts? How will you tailor the message? How will they be approached? Target audiences could include tribal government, federal, state, regional arts agencies, foundations, local businesses, and local individuals who have the interest and capacity to support the organization.
- Create a Plan: Clearly state the goals, audiences, methods, and timeline. Fundraising methods could include donations, fundraising events, sponsorships, and grants.
- Publicize Efforts: Announce the organization’s efforts using social media, email marketing, print advertising, and other channels.
- Thank Donors: Build relationships and encourage others to give again by thanking donors and others for their support.
Recorded Presentation
FEDERAL FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES (32:51) – Mary Downs, former Senior Program Officer from the National Endowment for the Humanities, and Clifford Murphy, former Folk & Traditional Arts Director at the National Endowment for the Arts share exciting news, answer questions, and discuss some of the funding opportunities offered by their respective institutions, including the NEH Challenge Grant and the NEA’s Our Town Program.