The Wyoming Arts Council now is accepting applications for its new Art Works for Wyoming grant program. This is one-time funding from the National Endowment for the Arts through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act. Applications are due by May 15.
“We are fortunate to live in a time when the arts are recognized for the impact they have on our economy,” said Rita Basom, Wyoming Arts Council manager. “The fact that the National Endowment for the Arts was included in our nation’s Stimulus Funding Plan is a credit to all of the artists, art businesses and nonprofit arts organizations who make their living through the arts, or hire artists to paint, dance, act, write, sculpt, design, etc. -- not just at this point in time, but throughout our nation’s history.”
In keeping with guidelines established by the NEA, funding may be used for the following:
1. Salary support, full or partial, for one or more positions that are critical to an organization’s artistic mission and that are in jeopardy or have been eliminated as a result of the current economic climate.
2. Fees for previously engaged artists and/or contractual personnel to maintain or expand the period during which such persons would be engaged.
Art Works for Wyoming will offer grants of up to $25,000 for projects that meet at least one of the above two criteria. Grants do NOT have to be matched, although it is recommended.
AWW applicant organizations must have been awarded a grant by the WAC in the last four years for which all reporting was successfully completed in a timely manner. If you have questions about whether your organization qualifies, please call the WAC at 307-777-7742.
All applicants must apply online through WAC’s online granting system at http://wyoarts.state.wy.us. No paper applications will be accepted.
The Western States Arts Federation, the regional arts organization that includes state arts agencies throughout the West (including Wyoming) also will accept grant applications from Wyoming applicants. Organizations wishing to apply to WESTAF must first apply to WAC’s Art Works program.
Applications are due at the WAC by May 15. On June 1, applications will be forwarded to the Western States Arts Federation. The Art Works for Wyoming grant panel will meet during the WAC board meeting in Newcastle June 3-5. On July 1, award letters will be sent to successful applicants.
All applicants must have a DUNS (Dun & Bradstreet) number and must have registered with the Central Contractor Registry. This is mandated by the NEA. If your organization does not have a DUNS number, register now. It’s free, but it can take up to 30 days. CCR registration requires a DUNS number, but takes only 72 hours. To apply for a DUNS number, go to www.dnb.com or call 1-866-705-5711.
“Nonprofit arts organizations in Wyoming -- and throughout the country -- employ artists, managers, marketers, technicians, teachers, designers, carpenters and workers in a wide variety of other trades and professions,” Basom said. “According to Americans for the Arts statistics, nonprofit arts organizations provide an estimated 5.7 million jobs in the U.S. each year. Arts jobs are part of a well-diversified and innovative 21st century economy.
“In the face of reduced revenue, including grants and donations, nonprofit arts organizations across the country are being forced to reduce or eliminate staff positions, or enact salary and benefit reductions. They are also being forced to scale back on arts programming, arts education opportunities, and free events for their communities.
“We are excited to be a part of this national effort to save arts jobs. And we encourage all qualified Wyoming organizations to apply for funding.”
