Grants for Dancers
- The Caroline H. Newhouse Fund provides financial support to dancers in the form of grants and scholarships in its Career Transitions for Dancers program. Professional dancers who are seeking retraining, academic pursuits or want to start a dance-related business can apply for a $2,000 grant. Dancers must submit an application detailing their work history as a professional. Applicants must provide proof of a career of at least seven years with 100 weeks or more of paid dance employment. Choreography and teaching do not count towards the employment quota. The foundation has several application periods throughout the year for grants. Dancers must contact the organization to determine their eligibility and then meet with a career counselor in order to apply.
- Creative Capital is a grant-making organization that disseminates funds to individual artists in various disciplines, including performing arts. Established professional dancers can apply for the grants. Dancers must have at least five years of working experiences, be U.S. citizens or legal residents and at least 25 years old. Applicants must submit a letter of inquiry to Creative Capital in order for the organization to determine if a dancer is eligible for a grant. Eligible dancers receive an application. The organization holds information sessions online and at on-site at locations around the country for interested artists. Grant amounts vary and can be as high as $50,000. Dozens of dancers, including famous performers such as Rennie Harris and Ronald K. Brown, have received grants from the organization.
- The New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) supports dancers through its production grants program which funds the development and production of new dance works on national tours. Dancers, choreographers and dance companies can apply for the award. The grant is meant to help fund a work from creation to performance. Award amounts range from $25,000 to $40,000. Approximately 20 artists and companies receive an NEFA production grant each year. Preference is given to U.S.-based companies and dancers although international companies can also apply. All applicants must have a U.S. presenting partner to help them create the work and put on a tour. The grant application is available on NEFA's website.
- Established by the late Prince Rainier III in honor of his wife, the Princess Grace Foundation-USA is dedicated to assisting emerging artists by offering financial awards, including grants. Individual dancers and choreographers can apply for a Princess Grace Award to pay for tuition, development of dance works and for special projects. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and nominated by schools or company artistic directors. All grants must be completed within the United States. Grant amounts vary depending on the proposed project and range from $5,000 to $25,000. The organization posts applications online.
