WISCONSIN ARTS BOARD

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1. Project does not address current needs in community or field.

• Stay informed of current trends in the discipline in which you are applying.
• Consider pursuing new, innovative ideas.
• Involve community members when you plan your project.

2. Project is ineligible or not appropriate to program guidelines or review criteria.

• Read the general guideline sections of the grantbook before preparing an application.
• Be familiar with program goals, priorities and evaluation criteria.
• If you are unsure of which program to apply for, call the Wisconsin Arts Board.

3. Application does not meet the intent of the program’s goals and review criteria.

• Be familiar with program goals, priorities and evaluation criteria before preparing your application.
• Discuss interpretation with the Arts Board program staff.

4. Application is difficult to read or understand.

• Proofread your application for spelling, grammar, math and typographical errors.
• Submit only a typed, reproducible application.
• Avoid the use of jargon.
• Have someone other than those directly involved in preparing the application read it.
• Set the application aside for a few days, then read it for clarity one last time before submitting it.
• Provide adequate detail in the narrative and budget sections of the application to describe the project clearly.
• Don’t repeat information in the narrative section.

5. Low quality support materials are provided.

• Printed support material should be concise but informational.
• Submit only high quality work samples (e.g., slides with proper density and focus, video tapes that are edited).
• Submit only work samples that relate directly to the project.

6. Application is incomplete.

• Provide all required information and support materials as requested in the instructions.
• Follow directions.
• Adhere to format instructions.
• Double check for all required application and support materials by utilizing the Checklist.
• Make sure your application and required materials are contained in the mailing package before mailing it to the Arts Board.

7. Applicant fails to take advantage of technical assistance.

• Contact the Arts Board early if you have questions.
• Submit a draft application for staff review (allow ample time for staff to respond in writing).
• Attend the peer review meeting.
• Read the panel comments after the review process.
• Attend Arts Board grantwriting workshops.

8. Application arrives late or it is not received by the Arts Board.

• Be aware of application deadline dates and whether it is a postmark or received by date.
• Consider using certified mail.
• Mail your application early.
• Keep a copy for your files.

9. Application form is outdated or incorrect form is used.

• It is critical that you use only the most current Arts Board application forms. Applications may be obtained at one of ten Resource Centers throughout Wisconsin. Call the Arts Board for the location nearest you.
• Applications for most organizational grants are published annually in the fall.

10. Application is not authorized or signed by an authorizing official.

• Obtain proper authority for your application prior to submitting it.
• Send a copy of your application to the authorizing official and governing board.

 

Updated: February 20, 2009