FAQs for MAC Fund for Artists Grants

Q: Which grant should I apply for?
It is extremely important to read the guidelines for the grants that are currently available in order to decide which one best fits what you are trying to accomplish. Briefly, Community Arts Partnership Grants are made to support projects that build a sense of excitement about the arts and involve the community in the arts. They encourage projects that build new collaborations between groups or strengthen existing ties. New Work Fellowships are awards to individual professional artists in specific disciplines who present a coherent body of work, track record in their field and who propose a project involving the creation of new work. Strength of body of work is paramount. Career Development Grants are open to artists at all levels of experience in all disciplines. They are designed to help artists at pivotal points in their professional development. The panel's estimation of the effect of the proposed project in boosting an artist's career is crucial. The key question is "Why this and why now?"

Q: Are there residency requirements?
A: Yes. For grants to individuals, the applicant must live in Marin County for at least 12 months immediately prior to the deadline. For our Community Arts Partnership Grants we do not have the 12-month rule, but we do require that the applicant live in Marin or the applying organization be based in Marin.

Q: Can I apply as an individual or do I have to have a fiscal agent?
A: For our New Work Fellowships and Career Development Grants you can ONLY apply as an individual. For our Community Arts Partnership Grants you may apply as an individual, a nonprofit or other community group. Certain partnership requirements apply depending on your status and mission.

Q: Are there tax implications of getting a grant?
A: Yes. If we make a grant payment to an individual we must report it to the IRS and will issue you a Form 1099 the following February. You are responsible for paying income taxes on grants.

Q: Should I talk to someone before applying?
A: If, after reading the guidelines and all information, you still have questions or concerns, We can often help you refine your project, avoid common problems, or tell you honestly that the project does not stand a good chance of being funded - which will save you the time of completing the application. It's generally sufficient to e-mail the Grants Program or call (415) 499-8350.

Q: When are the deadlines and when will I hear the results?
A: Please see the Apply for a Grant page for current deadlines. The time from application deadline to notification is generally as follows: Community Arts Partnership Grants - 3-4 months, Career Development Grants - 2-3 months, and New Work Fellowships - 5-6 months. Please note that deadlines change from year to year, and some are not determined until funding is secured to make those grants. It is important to check the website frequently for updates. It should not be assumed that the same grants will be offered from year to year. While The MAC Fund For Artists receives a modest amount of Foundation support, it's continued existence depends on the support of individual donors.

Q: Who decides who gets a grant?
A: The Arts Council uses a peer panel process. Final recommendations of the panel must be approved by the MAC Board.

Q: What are my responsibilities after receiving a grant?
A: We ask that you credit the Marin Arts Council Fund For Artists on all materials and publicity. We ask that you keep us informed about your project and make arrangements, if necessary, for a site visit. We ask for a final report in narrative form. We may look to you for testimonials or, in some cases, to showcase work as we try to develop a sense of excitement about the arts in Marin and try to stir interest in giving to the MAC Fund For Artists. While The MAC Fund For Artists receives a modest amount of Foundation support, it's continued existence depends on the support of individual donors.

Q: Are there other resources you can steer me to?

• The best place for researching grants is probably the Foundation Center, which can also be accessed through the Nonprofit Resource Center and Library in the building where the MAC is housed. They maintain searchable online databases of foundations that make grants to individuals and also to nonprofits. In general there are far fewer options for individuals, but the Nonprofit Resource Center and Library and the Foundation Center can provide you with an orientation on how to search for grants to individuals.
• The MAC provides members with a monthly Opportunities listing which will list any announced grants available that our research uncovers, as well as new deadlines for our grants.
• The New York Foundation for the Arts is a good resource for information.
• The George Lucas Education Fund does not make grants but does have a list of tips for grant seekers in arts and education.
• The Marin Community Foundation supports many projects in Marin, but generally requires applicants to be established organizations with stable infrastructure and a proven track record.