So once again we have heard the news from the Arts Council and it is "no".
Our second incarnation will be unfunded once again which is incredibly disappointing, but we managed the first time on the goodwill, energy and commitment of our participants, friends and audience, and we will do so again.
This setback is one stage in a process. Our first event was not only our first go at creating this kind of event, but also at raising funding. As our previous blog entry on funding indicates, this time around we identified fundraising as a priority and put a great deal of work into our Arts Council application, and since that time we have had considerable feedback from them and undertaken a number of re-writes.
That diligence has been rewarded in the initial words of the feedback we have received today: "There really was very little you could have done to strengthen your application."
Its good to have our feelings confirmed, that we had done a good job on the application. The feedback continues: "It is simply an unfortunate situation that out of the 9 applications from organisations recommended, only 2 made it through to receiving funding."
And there's the rub - only two out of recommended 9 applications are to get any money - 22%. The Olympics are apparently playing a role in this having diverted a great deal of lottery money – in the past the Arts Council has been able to grant 40 – 50% of the successful appliations they receive.
The Arts Officers we have been in touch with continue to be helpful and supportive and invite us to apply again next time, but if there's simply not enough money in the pot, we have to wonder if it is actually worth our time. Hopefully time will temper the disappointment and perseverence will win the day.
Meanwhile our sponsorship quest continues. Please contact us if you can help.
