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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Verdant Fund.

Q&A

How many projects are funded each year?

A panel of professionals selects 9 to 14 projects each year, depending on the size of the grant requests. All projects must be completed by December 31st of the year they are awarded.

What if my project lasts more than a year?

That’s fine! You can propose a project that spans multiple years, as long as some part of it — specifically the public-facing component — happens within the grant year.

If I AM funded, can I apply again next year?

No. Artists who receive funding must sit out one application cycle. If you have a multi-year project, apply during the most critical phase. We do not fund the same project twice.

If I’m NOT funded, can I apply again next year?

Absolutely! Every year, strong projects are declined due to limited funding. If you’re not selected, we encourage you to reapply. You can also reach out to a program administrator for feedback to help strengthen your proposal. Note: A new panel is seated each year.

What if my project costs more than $7,000?

That’s okay! You can still apply — just be sure to clearly explain how the rest of the project will be funded. If you have other grants or income sources, list them in your budget.

You may include ticketed events or sellable items as part of your project to help offset expenses, but a significant portion of the project must be free and accessible to the public. The public-facing element should not be an afterthought or a minor component. Projects that only exist behind a paywall or offer only minimal public access are not eligible.

What if my project costs less than $7,000?

That’s great, too. Apply for what you need.

Can I pay myself with a grant?

Yes — and you should. Artist compensation is a core goal of this grant. We expect every artist involved in a project to be paid. Projects that do not include artist honorariums will be less competitive.

Recommended honorariums:

  • $2,000 — Solo Exhibition or project
  • $1,000 — 2-Person Exhibition or project, each
  • $500 — Group project, 3-5 Artists each
  • $300 — Group project, 6+ Artists each
  • $600 — Performance of Existing Work
  • $200 — Solo Screening with In-Person Appearance, Event with Presentations or Performances by 2 or More Participants, a Talk, Discussion, or Workshop with 2 or More Participants, Presentation or Reading
  • $300 — Commissioned Talk or Presentation
  • $0.040 per word — Existing Text for Publication, Commissioned Text for Publication
  • $25 per hour or $125 per day — whichever is higher as a Day Rate

What does “Public-Facing” mean?

“Public-facing” means that the project is accessible to the general public at no cost. This doesn’t have to be an in-person event or exhibition. It could be:

  • A public installation
  • A zine distributed through libraries
  • A community workshop
  • A podcast or online publication
  • A livestream, online meet-up, or artist talk

The key is access: How will the public experience your work?

What does “Non-Traditional” mean?

This fund exists to support projects that would not easily be supported elsewhere. That might mean:

  • Using traditional media in a new context
  • Employing new materials or unconventional methods
  • Reimagining how art can be shared or experienced

A straightforward gallery show of paintings or sculpture is unlikely to be funded, unless it rethinks format, context, or audience access in a substantial way.

How do I know if my project is a good fit?

Come to an info session and pitch your idea! We host both in-person and virtual
sessions where you can share your concept and get feedback on how to shape a competitive application.

Are there reporting requirements?

Yes, but they are minimal. We ask grantees to submit two reports:

  • An Interim Report that provides a written progress update and details of all public-facing components planned or completed.
  • A Final Report that includes a summary of the completed project and image documentation or a short video.

We also ask that you keep us informed of project dates and developments so we can promote and support your work.

Bring your ideas to life.

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