ARTISTS' PROFESSIONAL TOOLBOX ::
Stay on Top of Funding Deadlines

The best way to stay on top of all artists' opportunities is to create a calendar of funding deadlines. While some may change from year to year, most funders tend to keep deadlines within the same timeframe annually. Mark not only deadline dates on your calendar, but also note dates to check funding Web sites for more information or how to access current application information. Most funders will announce funding deadlines for the upcoming year about two to six months in advance of when applications are due. In addition, it might also be helpful to keep basic information (contact information, eligibility requirements, funding priorities, etc.) on each funder electronically or on index cards that can be filed alphabetically or chronologically by deadline date. Keep in mind that it often takes one to four months to review applications. Most applications for individual artists are on an annual or biennial cycle, so when you plan your projects, plan to target grants to fund your project at least four to 28 months in advance.

Some opportunities have no specific deadline dates, so submit as projects come up. Some have not set deadline dates yet; check their Web sites periodically to avoid missing a deadline. Others have specific deadline dates. You will always want to double-check in advance if the deadline date is a "postmark deadline" or an absolute deadline (meaning that the funder needs to have the application in hand by that date).

If it's a postmark deadline, play it safe and take it to the post office to get a postmark on your application. That way you can also make sure you have sufficient postage as well. Dropping it into a mailbox after pick-up time, having insufficient postage, or stamping it with a postal meter might result in your application being returned or not accepted by the funder. If it's an absolute deadline, personally dropping it off, or sending it well in advance of the deadline and using some sort of delivery verification service (paying extra to get a receipt when the package has been accepted by the funder) might be best. Always double-check that you've addressed your application correctly.

These tips will help you keep track of opportunities so that you won't miss deadlines.