Applicants may apply as an individual or as a group. The primary contact person should submit the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and live and/or work in Durham County. We strongly encourage individuals who represent historically marginalized populations to apply.
Are there restrictions on when, where, and how long projects are? ExpandProjects must take place outdoors in Downtown Durham, an area defined by this map. Spring projects and will be scheduled between April and July, and Fall projects will be scheduled between September and December. Projects should last between 3 hours (think performance, public meal, storytelling event) to 5 years (think installation, mural, sculpture). Once selected, grantees will work with DDI staff to identify suitable locations, dates, and times for their projects.
How much money are the grants? ExpandGrants are made for $3,000 or $5,000. DDI will fund 75% of project budget; applicants’ 25% contribution may be cash or in-kind contributions of time or materials. Eligible costs include fees for the creators/artists, installation and teardown, and as well as all costs related to the production and execution of the project. Funding may not cover the purchase of alcohol. Funding may cover the cost of food/beverage if food/beverages are 1) a key component of the public art or 2) constitute less than 5% of total project budget and related to a public event or volunteer compensation
How should I budget for something like this? ExpandWe have a worksheet you can download here to work out your budget for this project.
What are the review criteria for applications? ExpandThe committee aims to select a broad range of projects. Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
Feasibility: Can this project be executed in public space with the funds provided?
Impact: Projects can demonstrate impact a number of ways including
– the longevity of a project (ie. transforming a public space for a long period of time)
– the potential for a project to influence perception or practice (ie. encouraging foot-traffic, forging new partnerships, engaging underserved populations, educating the public, or supporting the local economy)
– or the ingenuity of a proposal, among others.
Accessibility: Access is defined as the perceived and real ability for any person to appreciate and engage in a project regardless of age, ability, political belief, economic status, race, sex, gender expression, religion, language etc.
What questions do you ask in the application? ExpandWhat is your project idea? (2 sentences) This is your elevator pitch. Give us a high-level idea of what your project will consist of.
What do you want your project to do? (5 sentences) Public Space Projects should have a goal of addressing a need or a challenge or an opportunity in the Durham community.
How will you make this a reality? (2 paragraphs) This is the nuts and bolts. How are you going to pull off this project? What are participants going to experience?
Which amount are you applying for? $3,000 / $5,000 We recommend paying all artists at least $14/hour. You can download a budget worksheet here.
Do you live and/or work in Durham County? Y/N
First and last name
Email address
3 images uploaded (optional) You can include images here to show your past related work or give us a better idea of your proposed project
Website/social media links (optional)
Can I sell things at my project? ExpandEntry must be free of charge, but vending may occur at sole liability of applicant and with all necessary permits/licenses.
If I get the grant, what will be expected of me? ExpandIn addition to funding, DDI will support grantees by assisting with:
– Guidance on spatial and property logistics including permitting
– Facilitate neighborhood, property, and business owner buy-in
– Online and print media marketing and promotion
– Photo documentation and sandwich board signage
Any fine print details you can share? ExpandLet’s talk! Please email rachel@downtowndurham.com
I have more questions, can we talk? ExpandYes, please! We encourage folks to reach out if they have any questions or want feedback on their ideas.
Email rachel@downtowndurham.com or call 919.682.2800. We’re here to help!
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