- Grants for theatrical workshops can come from the government, foundations or corporations.Theatre Masks image by Timothy Edgerton from Fotolia.com
The government, foundations and corporations all fund grants for theatrical workshops. Every grant-giving organization has different funding priorities, so read the guidelines carefully to ensure that your grant request complies with the grant-giver's requirements. Also, remember that the vast majority of grant-giving organizations will not give money to individuals, and many will only give money to registered not-for-profit organizations. - Government grants for theatrical workshops come from three major sources. One source, the federal government, sponsors a grant-giving organization for arts and cultural organizations and projects called the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The NEA awards grants for arts projects that encourage artistic excellence, expand the reach of the arts to underserved populations and/or educate children and youth about the arts. Most NEA grant amounts range from $5,000 to $150,000. NEA grant deadlines vary, so check the organization's website for more details (see References section).
State governments also offer grants for theatrical workshops and other arts projects that meet the necessary requirements. Each state has its own arts advocacy institution that awards arts and cultural grants to qualifying organizations and projects. Most states call this organization an "Arts Council"---for example, the Ohio Arts Council. Some states, such as Texas, prefer "Arts Commission." No matter the name, this organization distributes state funds to arts organizations and projects. Check your state's arts council website for more information.
City governments often award arts grants as well. A quick search of a city council website will reveal any such grants. Larger cities are the most likely to offer arts and cultural grants. - Several foundations award grants on a national level, including the Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation (both award grants for arts projects, among many other ventures); however, you can also look for foundations that fund projects only in your geographic area. Generally, you stand a better chance of receiving grants specific to your city or state, where you will have to compete with fewer applicants. Many public libraries offer grant databases that can assist you in finding local foundations.
- Many corporations offer grants to a variety of different projects and organizations. Begin by checking the websites of companies that have a presence in your geographic area---Target, for example. Like many corporations, the retailer has a separate foundation arm of the company that deals with philanthropy. The Target Foundation gives grants to arts organizations and projects in all communities with Target stores. Macy's has a similar foundation. Any company with a major presence in the community is likely to give out grants. If you are unsure which companies in your area give grants, check the websites of local nonprofit arts and cultural organizations---especially organizations engaged in projects similar to that which you are trying to fund. Most organizations list their sponsors on their websites, and by learning who is sponsoring other organizations in your area, you can get an idea of who might sponsor your project.
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