How To Secure Art Grants & Art Bursaries

When it comes to finding a grant or bursary for an art business it can be a minefield. Knowing where to look for finance and how to secure it can improve your chances of being successful. However, the bad news is that almost all the other art businesses will be chasing the same grants and bursaries.

There are literally hundred of thousands of pounds handed out every year to start-up business, grants, loans and awards, but finding out how to apply for them can be difficult. The first thing you need to do is approach your local council or business link. They will be able to tell you what funding is available that year and who to contact to apply for it.

Grants

Grants consist if money that doesn't need to be paid back. However, it usually means that you have to fit into the qualifying criteria to be eligible to apply. The rules are normally very strict and you should only consider applying if you feel you have a realistic chance of securing the grant.

The princes trust offer grants to young people starting a business, but who are disadvantaged due to disability. The amount is around £1500 but to qualify you not only need to be disabled, you need a viable business plan, market research and proof of orders.

There are also art specific grants available for which you will need to contact the art council of Great Britain. They hold on file details of art grants and can advise as to your suitability.

Awards

Awards are even more elusive than grants when it comes to securing one. This is because awards are normally given to the outstanding and truly talented individuals. However, don't let this put you off applying, you may get lucky. After all, you have to be in it to win it.

When applying for an award, again make sure that you meet the entry criteria. It is no good applying for a sculpturing award if you are a watercolourist. Send for details of the awards in advance and read through carefully before deciding to apply. As with most 'free money' it normally comes with some pretty thick strings, which, if you're not careful, can strangle a new business.

Bursaries

As with the above, make sure you know what you are applying for. Contact the Art Council of Great Britain for advice and guidance, they know who to contact and how. Bursaries are normally awarded annually, so be sure you know the deadlines well in advance.

Once you have secured funding you will be able to invest in your business and help it to move forward. Beware, however, that with most of these forms of finance you will have to produce detailed records of how and where the money was spent along with financial records for up to several years.

Remember

If you are in any doubt about what you can and can't do with a financial award, ask a professional. This can be the citizen's advice bureau, trustees of the wards or the Art Council. Never apply for anything without knowing the long term implication for you and your business.

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