Why you should take a look at these funding resources for creatives
As creatives, many of us are freelancers that rely on independent sources of income.
With the COVID crisis and limitations put in place because of it, creatives may be in big financial trouble along with dealing with the potential health risk.
Still, although we’ve all been affected by the Coronavirus pandemic our creative resources are here to help. So we did some research on what resources creatives have available to them.
Creative Capital
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Currently, one of the best lists for resources is Creative Capital’s List of Arts Resources. Creative Capital is an organization that supports innovative and adventurous artists across the country through funding, counsel, gatherings, and career development services.
Their response to the epidemic has kept safety in mind by continuing online workshops but also by compiling a list of resources for artists and creatives affected by the reality of the epidemic.
CERF+
One of these top resources is CERF+. The Craft Emergency Relief Fund names itself the “artists safety net.” So, it’s only proper that it be available during COVID.
According to their website, CERF+ emergency assistance includes grants and/or brokered assistance, such as booth fee waivers and discounts or donations on supplies and equipment.
If you’re interested make sure you check their eligibility requirements. CERF+ also has a list of more resources, including relief agencies, arts organizations, and legal aid.
COVID-19 & Freelance Artists
Another good resource was put together recently. COVID-19 & Freelance Artists offers a list of free resources for creatives who may be affected by the pandemic. From crowdfunding by state to country, resources for teaching and learning to actual emergency funding, there are hundreds of links.
There are also virtual events, including upcoming tax and finance workshops and emergency funding workshops.
The site also has a page dedicated to Interrupting Racism & Bias. The page details ways you can fight Racism and Bias with dialogue and action.
NYFA
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If you’re based in the New York area, another good resource is NYFA. The New York Foundation for the Arts offers emergency grants to affected creatives. The funding is available to multiple disciplines including Multidisciplinary & Project-Based, Literature, Media Arts, Music, Performing Arts, Visual Arts.
Many of these applications for grants are completed via online form or email. So apply ASAP to get your chance.
The Musicians Foundation
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Funding from the Musicians Foundation is specific to musical artists of any genre. To qualify you must be a musician “in a time of acute need, due to personal, medical, dental, or family crisis, natural disaster, or other emergency situation.”
If your taxes can show that you’ve been a musician for at least five years then you might be eligible. For more information and to apply, visit the foundation’s website.