Not for Granted

Most non profit arts organizations cannot exist without the aid and assistance of grants. These organizations seek qualified and skilled grant writers when looking for staff to compliment their organization.   A specialized... [ view full abstract ]

Most non profit arts organizations cannot exist without the aid and assistance of grants. These organizations seek qualified and skilled grant writers when looking for staff to compliment their organization.   A specialized grant writer is an asset to an organization for their abilities in identifying, researching, and prioritizing opportunities and building relationships with funders to create a sustainable future for the arts.  Over the course of her capstone project, Maria researched the most potentially useful options for a new scenic projector for the Adrian College Department of Theatre and Dance to use in addition to the already stellar facilities and supplies provided by the college.  Through collaboration with local theatrical technology experts, Mikulec composed a full grant to be submitted to the Art and Mary Schmuckal Foundation. Research was spent on the process of grant writing through analysis of the importance of mission statements, vision, and value statements.  Grant writing requires that one approach the process  as a system of gradual tasks instead of a giant looming whole, establish and maintain a relationship with the foundation, and be aware of crucial project details.

With the presentation, Mikulec will highlight the entire process from learning about grants and exploring different Grant Makers to the writing of the actual grant. She will discuss her analysis of models and structures of actual grants.

This project represents the Ribbon Crossing Boundaries and Disciplines.  While the project encompasses both the fields of arts and business, Mikulec has explored the intersections of managing an arts based organization with the mindset of promotion and development.