Bush Foundation returns to arts funding

After a several year hiatus from arts funding, the Bush Foundation is getting back in the game.

Community Innovation Associate Dameun Strange says the formation of a new "Community Creativity Cohort" marks the foundation's first step in  developing a new arts funding strategy.

The program will provide at least ten organizations with $100,000 in unrestricted funds. In exchange, those organizations will spend six to nine months sharing what they know about engaging the community and building racial and economic equity.

"The program has a dual purpose,"explained Strange. "First, to recognize and support organizations that are doing the work at the intersection of arts, culture and community engagement. Second, to inform our work in the future."

Strange calls the program a "learning round." What works? What challenges do organizations face? How can foundations like Bush help?

He adds the program is not just open to arts institutions, but any organizations with a proven record of integrating the arts into public life. They could come from anywhere in the Bush's funding region: Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the native nations within that area.

The deadline for organizations to apply is Oct. 16.

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