The Traverse City Arts Commission’s Paint It Forward mini-grant program is intended to help community organizations create public art in Traverse City. The Arts Commission Paint It Forward mini-grant program is funded from a portion of the city’s General Fund, allocated to the Arts Commission by the City Commission each year. The total amount of grants we award annually is up to $3,000. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis, until grant funds are expended each fiscal year (July 1st – June 30th). Each grant is awarded as a reimbursement and will only be awarded if the requirements of the Financial and Final Report are adequately satisfied. The Arts Commission will use discretion to make modest and meaningful gifts. Each application will be evaluated on its merit and prudent use of funds. All funds must be used on projects within the City of Traverse City limits. Funds may also be used for operational costs. Please note: final approval of grant funds is approved by the City Commission.

Eligible applicants for Paint It Forward grants include:

Michigan-based non-profit groups to serve or have projects within the City of Traverse City.

Examples of projects we might consider funding include:

·     Purchase of art or portions of art that contribute to a larger installation

·     Artist fees

·     Fabrication, materials and other costs associated with installation  

·     Signage and other promotions

Ineligible activities:

·     Support for a political candidate or party

·     Advocacy work

·     Work that has already been completed

Application and Award Process

Applicants must complete this grant application form and send it to Lauren Bohac by email at: lauren@downtowntc.com. All grants must be for a single project or program. Repeat requests will be considered on their individual merits. Decisions will be made by the Arts Commission.

Notification

The Arts Commission will review Paint It Forward grant applications. A notification letter will be sent to all successful applicants within 60 days of approval. Any requested changes in the project after funding is awarded must be addressed and approved by the Arts Commission.

Payment Process

All grantees that receive an award must complete the Arts Commission’s financial report form.

Awardees must also submit a resolution of support from their governing body with the Final Report. Noncompliance with the terms of payment process and grant will render grantee ineligible to receive funds and ineligible for future Arts Commission Paint It Forward grants. All requests for funds must be submitted no later than one month after the project has been completed. Grant funds must be used within twelve months after the grant is awarded. Any publicity for grant events or projects should include a mention of the Traverse City Arts Commission per the communication conditions provided in the grant award letter.