Partner Artists: How to Apply

Eligibility

Projects and organizations of all artistic disciplines are welcome to apply for the Partner Artist program. The typical applicant has been in existence for less than three years and has an all-volunteer staff. Each project requires a separate application and a separate contract. To apply as an ongoing organization supporting multiple projects, the group must be incorporated as a Washington State non-profit (but not yet have received a 501(c)3 non-profit ruling from the IRS).

The following criteria are used when considering Partner Artist applications:


  • Serve an unique mission, purpose, and/or community

  • Projects a significant fundraising component from charitable sources such as foundations and individual donors

  • Appears serious in intent and well-planned

  • Contributes to the overall sustainability of the arts communities of Seattle

  • Exhibits experience in the artistic medium in-line with project plans

  • Serves audiences and is located in or around Seattle

  • Encourages cultural diversity and addresses under-served communities

  • Proposes sound strategies for fundraising, marketing and general operations

  • Shows potential for future or ongoing artistic and/or management development

  • Exhibits a definite need for Shunpike services, resources, and support

Project or Organization?

The first decision to make is whether to apply as a project or an organization. A loose distinction between the two is described below. Contact programs [at] shunpike.org if you still have questions.

Projects - Apply as a project if you are only planning a single project, event, or program in the next year and do not intend to form an ongoing company at this time. (ex. three artists intend to work together once to create a multi-media installation) Or, apply as a project if you are an ongoing company, organization, or individual who is seeking fiscal sponsorship for only one project or program. (ex. Acme Music Trio intends to put together a special radio play project)

Organizations - Apply as an organization if you are an ongoing entity that produces multiple projects in a year and wants the Shunpike to umbrella all of your activities. (ex. XYZ Theatre Company produces three theatrical productions annually.) Organizations will be required to become a WA-state non-profit corporation, a simple registration process with the Secretary of State. Shunpike offers assistance with this process, if you have questions.

How to Apply

[Click to Download Project Application]

[Click to Download Organization Application]

Applications to the Partner Artist Program are accepted and reviewed quarterly, according to the following schedule. Applications should be received at the Shunpike office no later than 6 PM on the due date for consideration in the current period.

To join the program in: Applications are due on:
Spring, 2008........... March 10, 2008
Summer, 2008.......... June 2, 2008
Fall, 2008............ September 8, 2008
Winter, 2008.......... December 1, 2008

Typically, applicants will be notified within 3 weeks of the due date on the status of their application. To receive a paper copy of the application, further information, and/or to request off-schedule consideration, contact programs [at] shunpike.org.