I just started a community youth dance ministry in SC. Where can I start looking for funding to help?

Question

We are also looking for a building to have pratice in, as of right now we are using the school gym, once a week and I thank God for that? We are also look for sponsors to help support us as we try to take our community back one dance step at a time.

Answer 1

first, try to ask support from your own parish. a donation box will do during church performances.

Try to contact your national cultural institution to help you in consolidating your group. They have available funds for a group like you. Try to be somebody first. Start in your own community.

Answer 2

You should learn how to file for tax exempt (501c3) status. This is given by the government shows the people donating to you are a non-profit and follow certain guidelines. Without this many people (or larger community foundations) will not want to donate to you. Ask people you know and local business in the mean time to help get you started.

Then I would apply for grants. Make sure you contact the organization in charge of the grant to make sure you meet the basic requirements for their grants (most will require the above mentioned non-profit status) and follow their instructions carefully when applying. Then you'll have to wait for them to make the decision. This process takes anywhere from weeks to months.

If you are given a grant there will likely be some follow up requirements. Mostly so they know that you use the money like you said you would. This is important especially if you are interested in ever applying for gratns from that organization again.

the link below is a list (from 2006) of foundations in South Carolina that may have grants available.

Best wishes for you and your program!