The Art of the Ask: tips for your Emerging Artist Grant application

We understand that while grant writing is essential, it can feel overwhelming if you’re not used to it. That’s why we created the video guide below.

Set out in five parts, it breaks down everything from the application process, eligibility guidelines, building a budget and includes our top tips to make your application stand out.

In this post, we expand on our top tips from the video so you can feel confident every step of the way.

Tell a clear story

Remember the good old ‘Who, what, where, why, how’ you learned when you were younger? Well, they’re still important today.

The who, what and where will be captured in the ‘Request Overview’ section in the GivingData application portal. For the rest of the application, we want to know the why and the how.

• Why does your project matter?
• Why must you undertake this project now?
• Why go overseas if a similar project can be done in Australia?
• How does this project advance your growth as an artist?

Keeping these questions in mind when preparing your responses will go a long way to ensure you present a cohesive and compelling application.

Be specific about your project timeline, goals and outcomes

This goes back to telling a clear story.

If you have a clear sense of why you’re pursuing this opportunity, let that purpose anchor every part of your application. Your why should shape your goals, guide the activities in your itinerary and echo throughout your responses.

While the Emerging Artist Grant focuses on your development rather than specific outputs, it’s still essential to articulate what your goals are and what you hope to gain from the opportunity.

Whether your aim is to build international networks, develop a specialised skill in your field, or deepen your practice through research, we want to understand the intention behind your project.

Be clear about costs

Make sure your budget is detailed and accurate. 

You should account for contingencies such as travel insurance, exchange rate fluctuations, and other unforeseen expenses. If you’re applying for multiple grants to fund this project, be sure to mention these as well.

To make it easier, we have a Budget template handy for you.

Get letters of support from the right people

We require a letter of support from two different referees. These letters should be from relevant referees who are familiar with your work and can attest to your proposed development.

Remember that a reference from anyone at your proposed host institution or someone involved in the mentoring of your proposed project will not be suitable, as these are considered letters of confirmation.

Keep in mind that a general character reference is not enough – we need referees to speak to your specific project and how you will be able to make the most out of this opportunity.

Proofread

Ask someone else to read over your draft.

Yes, we know it can be awkward and embarrassing to have another person read over your work, but it really does help. A fresh set of eyes reviewing your application means that you can refine it to make sure it’s not filled with art jargon and that it reads clear, confident and compelling to someone unfamiliar with your practice.

Our Sample Application Questions document is available on our website for you to download so you can prepare your application well ahead of time. When our Funding Round opens, it’s just a matter of copying and pasting your answers from the sample document into GivingData.

Make sure you double-check everything before submitting.

Ensure the files you have chosen are the right ones and are uploaded to the correct fields. A few extra minutes of review can save you from simple mistakes and give your application the best possible chance of success.

Happy applying!