ARC (Artists' Resource for Completion)

Application Tips & Samples

There is no perfect ARC application, but there are ways to ensure you make the best possible case for your project. Here are some basic tips:

Statement of Purpose

Write in the first-person. Be direct and avoid art jargon.

Answer each question concisely, but say enough about your work and the specific project for which you are seeking support to familiarize the panel with what you do. Be mindful that panelists in any given round may not have primary expertise in your discipline.

If you think the panel may not be familiar with the venue or event hosting you, say a few words about why that venue/event is distinguished in its field.

Briefly explain the items listed in Part 2 of the Budget section.

If you are requesting funds to collaborate with another artist/composer/director/etc., it is helpful if you identify the person by name and tell us why that particular collaborator will benefit your project.

Budget

Make sure the line items in your budget add up correctly, and that your ARC request in Part 2 of the budget form is explained in the statement of purpose.

Part 1 of the budget should include any income and expenses for the total cost of your project, and should not include anything related to your ARC grant request. Income and core expenses in Part 1 should match. Part 2 of the budget is where you list the items (materials, collaborator fees, etc.) that you would add to your project with the ARC grant.

Resume

Attach a clear, chronological resume. Do not use a biography in paragraph form. The panel will look to the resume to understand where you are in your career—how long you’ve been in the field, highlights to date, etc.

Proofread

Ask a friend to read your proposal before you send it in. Be sure to send in the completed application form (front and back), your statement of purpose, and your resume.

Formatting

-Use US letter sized paper (8.5"x11"); do not submit applications on A4 letter paper
-Submit applications without staples
-Arrange application materials in proper order (application, budget, resume, host letter)
-Refrain from including supplemental materials in your application
-Make sure your application is all single sided and not double sided
-Verify that the event/project dates specified on your application match with the dates specified in your host letter

Samples

Following are examples of successful applications to the ARC program.

(click to download PDFs)

Theater Application

Music Application

Visual Arts Application

Literary Application

Film/Video Application

Dance Application