Abstract
This essay offers practical guidance for funding the arts from the vantage point of a foundation administrator. It argues that effective strategies focus on local and state level funders rather than a small group of national foundations, noting that there are about twenty two thousand American foundations, only one hundred forty four with assets above fifty million dollars, and that most concentrate on needs close to home. The discussion urges partnership with regional corporations that link giving to marketing and public responsibility, and it recommends formal preparation through Council for the Advancement and Support of Education training and a two person team that joins a development officer with a program officer. Proposals should follow relationship building, not precede it, and should be framed around three evaluative themes. These are the strength of ideas, the capacity of individuals to deliver results, and the fit between institutions. The essay concludes that successful appeals align local interests with clear benefits, use Foundation Center resources, and present an ambitious yet credible vision that invites long term collaboration.
Recommended Citation
McDonough, Patrick D.
(1986)
"Arts Funding,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 55, Article 8.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol55/iss1/8
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