ARTS PROJECT SUPPORT PROGRAM

Purpose of Program and Source of Funding

The primary purpose of this program is to provide support to arts-related projects and programs within the City of Auburn, to encourage the development and stability of local arts programs, as well as offer opportunities for local artists. The Auburn Arts Commission allocates funding support it receives from 4Culture (Cultural Development Authority of King County) to community arts organizations and special projects through its Arts Sustained Support Program. All funds awarded through this program are dependent entirely on receipt of funds from 4Culture.

2008 Grant Cycles

• The deadline for projects scheduled July 1 through December 31, 2008 is May 15, 2008.
• The deadline for projects scheduled January 1 through June 30, 2009 is to be determined.

Application Requirements

The Project Support Grant Program provides small support matching grants for arts related projects or programs, produced or presented by non-profit organizations, for the benefit of the residents of the City of Auburn, Washington. Awards are typically $500 to $3,000. Basic requirements for applicants are as follows:

• Organizations must be incorporated as a Washington State not-for-profit corporation producing or presenting an arts program for the general public within the city limits of Auburn, WA.
• Only projects that support professional-quality artists, or arts organizations, will be considered.
• The grant requires a match of funds from either the organization and/or other sources of at least 50% of proposed project budget.
• Proposed projects must take place within the city limits of Auburn and serve/be completely accessible to all residents of Auburn. Priority will be given to projects that involve locally-based Auburn area artists and arts organizations and non Auburn-based organizations when it is demonstrated its services are available within the City of Auburn.
• Private or by-invitation-only events do not qualify. All events/projects must be open to the general public.
• Projects must comply with all regulations of the United States of America, State of Washington, and City of Auburn. Projects must comply with all Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and Handicapped Access rules and regulations.
• Those artists or organizations receiving funding through other City of Auburn Arts Commission programs or sponsorship may apply for funds through this program; however, priority is given to those organizations who are not already receiving funding support through any of the other City of Auburn Arts Commission programs.
• All applicants must be available for a 20-minute interview.

What kind of projects do not qualify?

• Capital improvements, purchase of equipment, or real property.
• Scholarships, tuition assistance, or other student support.
• Cash prizes.
• Underwritten project sponsorships, or subsidy of tickets.
• Projects which support religious activities or political organizations.
• Projects which benefit singular artists or individuals to develop, or workshop an art project.
• Projects that exclusively or primarily benefit the membership of the organization, or those that preclude reasonable access by the general public.

Projects meeting criterion shall be evaluated according to the following:

• At least 65% of total project features an arts program(s).
• Demonstrated administrative capacity of the applicant organization.
• A goal of the Auburn Arts Commission is to enhance appreciation of the arts and provide as broad a spectrum and access to arts programming as possible to all residents of Auburn. Consideration is given to those projects that demonstrate how these Commission priorities are addressed.
• Community outreach, or involvement, including partnerships with other organizations, or public participation, with an implementation plan and evaluation of the impact of the project will be given additional consideration.

All published materials and announcements regarding the project must state: “This project made possible through the support of the City of Auburn Arts Commission and 4Culture King County Lodging Tax.” Promotional credit must be clearly prominent or project support may be forfeited.

Panel Review

Eligible applications are reviewed by a peer panel selected for their knowledge and/or expertise in the arts, familiarity with the Auburn community and their ability to interpret policies and review criteria. Each panel includes at least one member of the Arts Commission. Prior to the review meeting, panelists receive the applications, program guidelines, panel responsibilities, and grant review procedures. Panelists are responsible for reading and considering eligible applications prior to the panel review meeting.

Final Commission Approval

The panel will submit its funding recommendations to the full Auburn Arts Commission at a regular meeting. The Commission may vote to approve or modify the recommendations. Each applicant will be provided with a written notification of the final Commission action.

How to Apply

There is an electronic form available at the link below. If you prefer a printed copy, or MS Word version, please contact Laurie Rose, Cultural Arts Manager, at 253-804-5057 or lrose@auburnwa.gov.

At any time before the deadline for application, applicants may contact staff for assistance with completing the grant application, or to have any other questions concerning the process answered. Contact Laurie Rose, Cultural Arts Manager, at 253-804-5057 or lrose@auburnwa.gov, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 am - 5 pm.