How to Write Travel Grants for Artists

As the economic situation in the United States remains somewhat harsh, funding for artists is increasingly hard to come by. Some grant programs have been axed, reduced or frozen, and competition among artists for available grants is intense. Before you despair of receiving a travel grant for artist activities, bear in mind that a strong, justified grant application still has a good chance of success. Carefully identify any niche grants which apply to your status as an individual or as an artist.

Instructions

1

Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements of the travel grant you would like to apply for. Some travel grants may only be available to artists residing in a particular state, county or city. For example, the Arts Council for the Northern Adirondacks offers travel grants to artists residing only in certain counties of northern New York state. Other restrictions may apply--the ACNA, for example, does not offer travel grants for artists who are registered students in high school or college.

2

Create a detailed budget for your trip. Include the cost of air tickets, car hire, other ground transportation, accommodation, any participation fees for art institutes, workshops or conferences, and optionally a per diem for incidental expenses and food while you are traveling. Clearly itemize these travel expenses and provide an exact cost for each. In some cases, you will be required to show that the travel grant covers only a maximum of half the total budget. The Vermont Arts Council, for example, requires that you match any Arts Council grant with the same amount of non-federal money toward the cost of your trip.

3

Write down the ways in which this specific opportunity will enhance your artistic career. Include this information in the proposal or application form you send to the grant-awarding authority. Your chances of receiving a grant will be greater if you can show that the skills or experience gained through travel will be used with a wider audience in your home area. For example, if you apply for a travel grant to attend a watercolor-painting institute, you might use the skills gained to run kids' art classes when you return home.