“Making money is art and working is art and good business is the best art.”
– Andy Warhol
Especially during tough times like these, we all know that funding is key in any project and endeavor. Remember – if it’s your first time, you have to start somewhere. The hard part can be knowing where to start.
So, we’ve listed four different ways you can go about getting your projects funded. Additionally, each method is linked to a list/database of different opportunities and resources to help streamline your search.
Before you start following any of these methods, you want to make sure you have a clear project outline and ideal budget(s). Don’t know how much you need? Click here for a guide on how to build your budget.
- Grants can be time consuming and tough to get, but once you are awarded a grant you are more likely to obtain another. There are so many options out there, so our number one tip is to filter out the ones that don’t fit your needs, and apply for the ones that do. Our list makes it easy for you to look up competitions by region and artistic category. Click here to get more insight on grant writing.
- Competitions are a great way not only to get you funding for your project but also to give your creative juices flowing an extra kick. The common nature of any competition is, of course, rules – and it’s your job to create your own take on it. This is great to get you out of your comfort zone and make something you never even realized you could make in the first place. Unfortunately, the prize is not guaranteed. However, you are guaranteed to grow as an artist and guaranteed to get your name out there even more. Think of it as an alternative way to network while social distancing!
- Loans: Borrowing money shouldn’t be your first choice, but if you still haven’t hit your goal and you need the extra cash, make sure to plan exactly how much you’ll need and how you can pay it back. Remember there are many types of loans with various guidelines and interest rates. So don’t forget to shop around, and make sure you apply for the one that works best for you. *Quick Tip: After you read everything over, map out your financial plan, and a pros and cons list to see which best fit.
- Crowdfunding: Asking for help will always be somewhat difficult, but it’s an important skill to master as an artist. Click here for more on the art of asking. Creating your own crowdfunding campaign is a great opportunity not only to help raise funds but also to start promoting your project to the public. You can get creative with it and generate perks for those who donate specific amounts. Not only incentivizing the donation, and promoting the project further, but also just a great way of showing your gratitude!
via Two Mortgage Guys on GIPHY