Federal Level

1.1. National Endowment for the Arts

(The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Website: )

The National Endowment for the Arts is an independent agency of the United States government established by Congress in 1965 with the purpose of supporting the arts, providing arts education, and exposing the public to the arts. The mission of the National Endowment for the Arts encompasses two key objectives:

Fostering talent, diversity, and emphasizing the vital role of the arts in America.

Expanding public access to the arts.

These goals are achieved through various means, including sponsorship activities, leadership training, cooperative agreements with state and regional organizations, research, arts education, and programs promoting inclusivity in the arts. In 1995, Congress decided to significantly reduce funding to individual artists.

The National Endowment for the Arts maintains a comprehensive library accessible at 1-202-682-5429, along with a policy and research department reachable at 1-202-682-5424.

In 1995, the National Endowment for the Arts underwent restructuring to adapt to federal funding cuts. Previously centered on the arts, it transitioned to a function-based funding structure, distributing funding across four categories: creativity and expression, heritage and conservation, education, and "access" (i.e., enhancing access to the arts for diverse sectors of society). These changes aimed to make art accessible to a wider audience, ensuring everyone's right to enjoy art and promoting artistic engagement and stability.

The National Endowment for the Arts maintains funding partnerships with state and local arts agencies, but these activities are currently under review.

The National Endowment for the Arts is led by a President appointed by the President of the United States for a four-year term following Senate consultation. The National Council for the Arts (NCA) consists of 26 officers appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. They advise the President on public policies, funding programs, and job processes. Members of the National Arts Council come from diverse artistic fields and typically serve six-year terms.

Grants are evaluated by expert panels specializing in specific art disciplines and functions.

The National Endowment for the Arts is facing significant and ongoing changes, including uncertainty about funding post-1998 Constitution. The most up-to-date information can be found on the website, which includes employee listings, or by contacting relevant departments directly.

1.2. President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities

(The President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities)

The President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities was established by Executive Order in 1983 to encourage and promote private sector support for the arts and humanities. It aims to enhance public appreciation for the values of the arts and humanities and foster outreach programs in diverse communities. This includes setting standards for evaluating talent. The committee also serves as a platform for exchanging ideas through conferences and publications, exploring ways to combine public policies with private funding to support cultural life. Additionally, it considers the possibility of future funding for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities and strives to address pressing issues related to the arts and humanities.

The President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities consists of individuals in leadership positions appointed by the President from the private sector who have a strong interest in and commitment to the humanities and inclusive culture. This committee collaborates with various organizations, including the Department of Education, National Funding Organizations for the Arts and Humanities, the Soviet Union Institute, the Library of Congress, the National Museum of Fine Arts, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

2. State Level

2.1. National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA)

http://www.nasaa-arts.org

The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies is a national service organization for state arts agencies. It represents its members by convening regular meetings and conducting research. The association serves as an information hub for any state arts agency and general arts funding information at the state level. The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies regularly provides reports and publications related to arts funding and can offer a comprehensive list of state arts agencies and key individuals.

2.2. Alabama State Arts Councilhttp://www.arts.state.al.us2.3. Alaska State Arts Councilhttp://www.aksca.org2.4. Arizona State Arts Departmenthttp://arts.asu.edulartscomm/2.5. Akasat State Arts Councilhttp://www.arkansasarts.com2.6. California State Arts Councilhttp://www.cac.ca.gov2.7. Colorado State Council on the Artshttp://www.colorts.state.co.us2.8. Connecticut State Arts Departmenthttp://www.ctarts.org2.9. Delaware State Department of Artshttp://www.artsdel.org2.10. Florida Department of Cultural Affairs, Florida State Council on the Artshttp://www.dos.state.fl.us/dca/2.11. Georgia State Council on the Artshttp://www.ganet.org/georgia-arts/2.12. State of Hawaii Cultural and Arts Foundationhttp://www.hawaii.gov.sfca2.13. Idaho State Arts Departmenthttp://www2.state.id.us/arts2.14. Illinois State Arts Councilhttp:l/www.state.il.uslagency/iac2.15. Indian State Arts Boardhttp://wwvv.in.gov.iac2.16. Iowa State Arts Councilhttp://www.culturalaffairs.org/iac2.17. Bang Kan-sat Arts Departmenthttp://arts.state.ks.us/2.18. Kentucky State Arts Councilhttp://www.kyarts.org2.19. Louisiana State Art Departmenthttp://www.crt.state.la.us/crt/ocd/doapage/doapage.htm2.20. Department of Arts of the State of Mennehttp://www.mainearts.com2.21. Maryland State Arts Councilhttp://www.msac.org2.22. Massachusetts State Cultural Councilhttp://www.massculturalcouncil.org2.23. Michigan State Council on Arts and Cultural Affairshttp://www.commerce.state.mi.us/arts2.24. Minnesota State Arts Departmenthttp://www.arts.state.mn.us2.25. Mitsuri State Arts Councilhttp://www.missouriartscouncil.org2.26. Montana State Arts Councilhttp://www.arts.state.mt.us2.27. Naples State Arts Councilhttp://www.nebraskaartscounci/.org2.28. Nevada State Council on the Artshttp://www.dlma.clan.lib.nv.us/docs/arts/2.29. New Hampshire State Arts Councilhttp://www.state.nh.uslnhartsl2.30. New Jersey State Council on the Artshttp://www.njartscounci.org2.31. New Mexico State Arts Councilhttp://www.nmarts.org2.32. New York State Arts Councilhttp://www.nysca.org2.33. North Carolina State Arts Councilhttp://www.ncarts.org2.34. North Dakota State Arts Councilhttp://www.state.nd.uslarts2.35. Ohio State Arts Councilhttp://www.oac.state.oh.us2.36. Omaha State Arts Councilhttp://www state.ok.us/arts2.37. Oregon State Arts Departmenthttp://art.econ.state.or.usl2.38. Pennsylvania State Council on the Artshttp://www.artsnew.orglpca2.39. Rhodes Ireland State Arts Councilhttp://www.arts.state.mn.us2.40. South Carolina State Arts Boardhttp://www.state.sc.uslarts2.41. South Dakota State Arts Councilhttp://www.state.sd.usldecalsdarts2.42. Tennessee State Arts Departmenthttp:llwww.arts.state.tn.us2.43. State of Texas Art Departmenthttp://www.arts.state.tx.us2.44. Uttarakhand State Arts Councilhttp:l/www.dced.state.ut.us/arts2.45. State Council of the Arts of Warsawhttp:llwww.state.vi.us/vermont-arts/2.46. Virginia State Arts Departmenthttp://www.artswire.org/%7evacomm/2.47. Washington DC Department of Arts and Humanitieshttp://www.dcarts.dc.gov/2.48. Washington State Arts Departmenthttp://www.arts.wa.gov/2.49. West Virginia State Department of Education and Arts-Culture and History Divisionhttp://www.wvculture.ong2.50. Wisconsin State Arts Departmenthttp://www.arts.state.wi.us2.51. Wyoming Arts Councilhttp://www.spacr.state.wy.us/cr/arts

3.1. National Association of Local Arts Agencies (NALAA)

The National Association of Local Arts Agencies is a national service organization for local arts agencies. It provides agreements and information services while promoting arts at the federal, state, and local government levels. The National Association of Local Arts Agencies has a program that releases large-scale publications and regularly initiates special campaigns in areas where it can act as a catalyst for cooperative development and funding.

3.2. Arts Business Council (BCA)

Established in 1967 by David Rockefeller, the Arts Business Council is a national non-profit organization that connects arts and business. It provides services and resources necessary for businesses, large and small, to develop and promote collaboration with the arts, benefiting commerce, art, and the community.

BCA offers a range of programs and services to help businesses:

(1) Identify opportunities for collaboration with the arts locally, nationally, and internationally. (2) Develop specific collaborative activities with the arts to advance business goals. (3) Assess and enhance the involvement of these businesses in the arts. (4) Find ways to collaborate with the arts in advertising, marketing, public relations, employee relations, and community relations strategies. (5) Address work issues such as diversity, team building through arts collaboration, and identify businesses that are not their competitors to build collaborative relationships with the arts. (6) Create arts-related activities to attract and retain staff, generate new business, and take a leadership position in the community. (7) Develop a strategy for establishing an art collection and using it as an asset for business. (8) Establish and evaluate art programs funded partly from employee salaries and bonuses as well as volunteer art programs.

The Arts Business Council organizes a regular program of lectures and workshops on business support for the arts, including the annual David Rockefeller Lecture. Executives from BCA member companies and BCA staff are always available to speak at workshops or conferences on business-arts partnerships.

BCA collects information, conducts research, and publishes reports on the latest trends in business-arts alliances to help businesses develop and strengthen their arts collaborations and provide information to the public about the results that businesses can achieve through arts investment. Newly published reports include: 1999 Survey of BCA Member Companies, Why Businesses Invest in the Arts, and a BCA report: 1998 National Survey of Business Support for the Arts.

BCA also coordinates the activities of the International Network of Arts Business Associations, a network of organizations that jointly shape the alliance between business and the arts, share information and expertise to enhance the development of global business-arts alliances. This network includes members from Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Switzerland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, the Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Every year, BCA hosts the Business and the Arts Awards, sponsored by BCA and Forbes magazine, a 30-year tradition that honors businesses and entrepreneurs for their leadership, dedication, and vision in developing arts alliances.

BCA also produces various publications to encourage businesses to invest in the arts, including quarterly BCA Information newsletters, the publication "Change the Way You Do Business," which emphasizes the value of the arts to commerce and the community; "Artful Leadership: Building Business-Arts Alliances," a pocket guide on sponsorship for companies; "A BCA Report: 1999 Survey of BCA Member Companies," which outlines the art funding practices of BCA member companies; and "BCA Case Studies," a collection of over 20 case studies on successful business-arts partnerships.

III. SPONSORSHIP FROM COMPANIES AND FOUNDATIONS

Private Foundations

Local factors are crucial in working with U.S. foundations. For example, the International Theatre Festival Chicago may seek funding from Chicago-based foundations not because it is international but because it is in Chicago. Even when a local organization says it does not sponsor international activities, it can still do so at the local level.

U.S. tax laws make it challenging for foundations to sponsor organizations outside the United States. If sponsorship is the goal of foundations, they need to find a U.S. partner. However, some large foundations are increasingly interested in understanding cultural policies and sponsorship practices beyond U.S. borders.

A consortium of foundations has established a research and advocacy organization called the Arts and Culture Partnership. The foundations listed in this document are major national foundations interested in international activities, often viewing it as a means to better understand the diversity of U.S. culture, promote innovation and collaboration, or enhance the development of the arts in the United States. Foundations that support strengthening arts development in the United States are marked with an (*).

1.1. Ford Foundation*

Areas of interest: New works in the performing arts and promoting cultural diversity.

1.2. German Marshall Fund

Areas of interest: Enhancing relations between Western Europe and the United States through academic research, policy relevant to projects, bilateral conferences, and study visit programs. Not particularly focused on the arts but may have cultural interests in social aspects and broad policy development.

1.3. Association of Grantmakers in the Arts

This organization is an agency whose members include multiple foundations, trustees, and individual sponsors of the arts. It prints a newsletter, conducts an annual conference, and coordinates information on private sector funding for arts and cultural activity in the region.

1.4. Heinz Endowments

1.5. John Solomon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation

Areas of interest: Providing fellowships (approximately $26,500) to individuals to promote the development of scholars and artists.

1.6. Kenan Institute for the Arts

1.7. John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

Areas of interest: While most arts programs have international scopes, cultural programs often focus domestically, particularly in Chicago and Cook County. The Foundation is exploring international funding in the field of communications. The Foundation has the MacArthur Fellowship Program, also known as the "Genius Grant," awarded to individuals with extraordinary talent and promise for creative work.

1.8. Pew Charitable Trusts

Areas of interest: Majority of funding goes to national programs and focuses on advocacy issues, as well as the creation, development, and dissemination of new work. Some smaller funders support international projects related to artists and arts organizations in Philadelphia.

1.9. Pollock-Krasner Foundation

Areas of interest: Supports independent working visual artists. Awards are given to artists in the United States, Europe, former Soviet Union, Central America, and Asia.

1.10. Rockefeller Foundation

Areas of interest: Funding creative artists in the United States whose work can expand understanding of third world cultures, especially Africa, Latin America, Asia, and U.S. minority communities. Also operates the Bellagio Study and Conference Center in Bellagio, Italy.

1.11. Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund

Areas of interest: Promoting the vital role of the arts nationwide by encouraging interaction between artists and communities through community-based activities, collaboration, and partnerships in efforts to support the arts. One of the largest arts funds in the United States.

1.12. Xerox Foundation

Areas of interest: Funding cultural organizations actively involved in the debate on major national and international issues.

Corporations

Corporate funding for the arts is ever-changing in the United States. Mergers and globalization have created a shift from locally focused sponsorship to policies dictated by central headquarters thousands of miles away, as well as the need for international expansion.

Funding often results from personal contact with an executive, particularly if the individual had a personal experience with the arts and takes an interest in arts development. U.S. corporations may sponsor the arts because they believe the arts are important to the community and can encourage teamwork and employee commitment.

Corporations often have the ability to offer sponsors a tax deduction for gifts to the arts. In-kind donations are often a way for a corporation to provide more value for their money than a simple monetary contribution. This can also provide a great deal of goodwill with consumers. In-kind donations may be an effective means for international artists or organizations to access funding.

2.1. AT&T Corporation

Areas of interest: Supporting arts development in order to stimulate commerce in local areas.

2.2. Chase Manhattan Bank

Areas of interest: Corporate support for the arts primarily focuses on regional arts in the United States. It may offer support on a project-by-project basis. It has strong connections with large-scale cultural organizations.

2.3. DuPont*

Areas of interest: Active in community activities and various educational programs. While it has traditionally focused on local arts projects, some of its projects have become so well-established and large that they have begun to operate on an international scale.

2.4. IBM Corporation

Areas of interest: Provides a great deal of support to local arts organizations that are seen as leaders in promoting regional development.

2.5. Johnson & Johnson*

Areas of interest: Offers national and local corporate support for arts development to stimulate commerce and community involvement. Also provides support to the arts worldwide.

2.6. McDonald's*

Areas of interest: A leader in corporate arts support in the United States and internationally.

2.7. Mobil Foundation

Areas of interest: Provides corporate support to local arts development, primarily in the United States.

2.8. Philip Morris*

Areas of interest: Corporate support for the arts. It has a long history of support for the arts and does not give to organizations that promote tobacco use.

2.9. Prudential Foundation

Areas of interest: Offers local support for the arts.

2.10. Toyota Corporation*

Areas of interest: Provides support to organizations actively involved in the arts in the United States and globally.

Cultural Diplomacy Initiatives

There are several entities in the United States that engage in cultural diplomacy and may offer financial support or cooperation to international cultural initiatives. Some of these organizations include:

3.1. U.S. Department of State

The U.S. Department of State, through its Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), administers various programs designed to promote cultural exchange and diplomacy. ECA's Arts Envoy Program, for example, sends U.S. artists and arts experts abroad to engage in cultural exchange, while the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) brings international arts professionals to the United States to foster collaboration and understanding. ECA also manages cultural exchange programs like Fulbright and the International Writing Program.

3.2. Institute of International Education (IIE)

The Institute of International Education administers multiple programs designed to support international exchange and cooperation in the arts. IIE manages the Fulbright Program, which provides grants to artists, scholars, and professionals for academic and cultural exchange. Additionally, IIE operates the Artist Protection Fund (APF), which offers assistance and fellowships to threatened artists worldwide.

3.3. U.S. Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world often have cultural affairs offices that can offer support and opportunities for international cultural initiatives. They may facilitate exchanges, provide information about funding opportunities, and connect you with local organizations and artists.

3.4. International Arts and Artists

International Arts and Artists is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C., that promotes international art and culture through exhibitions, partnerships, and educational programs. They collaborate with U.S. and international organizations to present exhibitions and support artistic exchange. While they primarily focus on visual arts, they may be a resource for connecting with international artists and organizations.

3.5. Sister Cities International

Sister Cities International is a network of U.S. cities and their counterparts around the world that collaborate to promote cultural exchange and understanding. They may offer support and connections for international arts and cultural initiatives.

3.6. U.S. National Commission for UNESCO

The U.S. National Commission for UNESCO is a federal agency that facilitates cooperation between the United States and UNESCO, including cultural and educational programs. While its focus is on activities related to UNESCO's mandate, it may have insights or connections relevant to international cultural initiatives.

Universities and Educational Institutions

Many universities and educational institutions in the United States are actively engaged in international cultural exchange and may provide support or collaboration opportunities for your initiative. These institutions often have departments, programs, and cultural centers dedicated to international arts and culture.

Local and State Arts Agencies

Local and state arts agencies in the United States play a crucial role in supporting and promoting the arts within their respective regions. These agencies offer grants, resources, and opportunities for local and international cultural initiatives. You can explore collaboration or funding possibilities with relevant agencies in the area where you plan to work.

International Funding Opportunities

There are international organizations and foundations that provide funding and support for cultural and artistic projects worldwide. Some examples include:

6.1. Prince Claus Fund

The Prince Claus Fund supports cultural projects in countries where resources and opportunities are limited. They provide grants and assistance for initiatives that have a positive impact on communities and contribute to the development of arts and culture.

6.2. Open Society Foundations

Open Society Foundations offer grants to individuals and organizations working on issues related to civil society, arts and culture, and more. Their funding priorities include promoting open societies and supporting artistic freedom.

6.3. European Cultural Foundation (ECF)

The European Cultural Foundation supports cultural initiatives in Europe and beyond. They offer grants, fellowships, and other opportunities for projects that promote cultural exchange, creativity, and social change.

6.4. Japan Foundation

The Japan Foundation supports international cultural exchange and collaboration. They provide grants and programs to facilitate cultural initiatives and artistic projects involving Japanese culture.

6.5. Goethe-Institut

The Goethe-Institut promotes German culture and language worldwide. They offer programs and funding opportunities for international cultural exchange and collaboration involving German artists and culture.

6.6. International Cultural Relations (ICR) Program

The International Cultural Relations Program is a part of the European Union's cultural diplomacy efforts. They support cultural projects that enhance cooperation and dialogue between the European Union and countries around the world.

6.7. National Endowment for Democracy (NED)

The National Endowment for Democracy supports projects that strengthen democracy and civil society. While not focused exclusively on the arts, they may provide funding for initiatives that use the arts to promote democratic values and engagement.

Please note that the availability of funding and the specific criteria for support can change over time. It's essential to research and reach out to these organizations directly to inquire about current opportunities and application procedures.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Numerous non-governmental organizations in the United States are dedicated to cultural exchange and international collaboration. These NGOs may provide support, partnerships, or advice for your international cultural initiative. Some well-known organizations include:

7.1. International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES)

ICES is a non-profit organization that specializes in cultural exchange programs, including hosting and promoting international artists and students in the United States.

7.2. Cultural Vistas

Cultural Vistas facilitates international professional and cultural exchange programs. They offer a range of initiatives to connect people, organizations, and ideas across borders.

7.3. Alliance of Artists Communities

The Alliance of Artists Communities supports artist residency programs in the United States and may provide resources and connections for artists seeking international exchange opportunities.

7.4. ArtsLink

ArtsLink, operated by CEC ArtsLink, promotes international arts and cultural exchange. They offer grants, residencies, and opportunities for artists and arts organizations.

7.5. Meridian International Center

The Meridian International Center focuses on international exchange and diplomacy through the arts, culture, and education. They organize programs and events to connect people and cultures.

These are just a few examples of organizations that engage in cultural exchange and support international cultural initiatives. When approaching NGOs, be sure to research their specific areas of focus and the programs they offer to determine which ones align with your goals.

Crowdfunding and Online Platforms

Crowdfunding and online platforms have become popular ways to raise funds for artistic and cultural initiatives. Websites like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, Patreon, and GoFundMe allow you to create campaigns to solicit donations and support from individuals worldwide who believe in your project.

When using crowdfunding platforms, it's essential to create a compelling campaign that explains your initiative, its goals, and how supporters' contributions will make a difference. You can also offer rewards or incentives to backers to encourage their support.

Remember that successful crowdfunding campaigns often require effective marketing, engaging storytelling, and a robust online presence to reach potential supporters.

Foundations and Grant-Making Organizations

Numerous private foundations and grant-making organizations in the United States provide funding for international arts and cultural initiatives. These organizations often have specific focus areas and eligibility criteria, so it's important to identify those that align with your project. Here are some notable examples:

9.1. The Ford Foundation

The Ford Foundation supports projects that address global issues, including arts and culture. They offer grants to organizations and initiatives working to advance social justice and creativity.

9.2. The Rockefeller Foundation

The Rockefeller Foundation provides funding for projects that promote the well-being of humanity. While they don't exclusively focus on the arts, they support initiatives related to creativity and cultural engagement.

9.3. The Knight Foundation

The Knight Foundation focuses on promoting informed and engaged communities. They offer funding opportunities for initiatives that use the arts and culture to connect and empower communities.

9.4. The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation

The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation supports the performing arts, including dance, jazz, and theater. They offer grants to organizations and artists working in these fields.

9.5. The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts

This foundation supports contemporary visual arts and provides grants to artists and organizations in this field. While they primarily focus on the visual arts, they may support cross-disciplinary projects.

9.6. The Henry Luce Foundation

The Henry Luce Foundation supports projects that explore the intersection of religion, art, and culture. They offer funding for initiatives that encourage dialogue and understanding.

9.7. The Kresge Foundation

The Kresge Foundation invests in the arts and culture, with a focus on expanding opportunities and supporting creative communities.

9.8. The MacArthur Foundation

The MacArthur Foundation provides grants to support creative and effective institutions and individuals. While they have a broad focus, they may offer funding to innovative cultural initiatives.

9.9. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

The NEA is a federal agency that supports the arts in the United States, but it may provide funding for international projects that involve American artists or organizations.

9.10. The Guggenheim Foundation

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation supports art and cultural projects that align with their mission, which includes promoting the understanding and appreciation of modern and contemporary art.

These are just a selection of foundations and grant-making organizations that support the arts and culture. You can explore their websites to learn about their specific funding priorities, application processes, and deadlines.

Collaboration with Artists and Cultural Organizations

Collaborating with artists, cultural organizations, and institutions can be a valuable way to access funding and support for your international cultural initiative. Many artists and organizations have experience with fundraising, grant applications, and partnership opportunities. Here are some potential collaborators:

10.1. International Artists

Collaborating with international artists who share your vision can help you access funding opportunities specific to their countries or regions. International artists may have insights into local funding sources and cultural institutions.

10.2. Cultural Organizations

Cultural organizations and institutions, both in the United States and abroad, often seek partnerships for joint initiatives. They may have access to grants, venues, and resources that can support your project.

10.3. Arts Councils and Commissions

State and local arts councils and commissions in the United States can provide support, funding, and connections for arts and cultural initiatives. You can explore opportunities to work with them on your project.

10.4. Artist Residency Programs

Artist residency programs offer artists and cultural professionals the opportunity to work in different countries. These programs may provide financial support, workspace, and access to local networks.

10.5. International Festivals

International arts and cultural festivals can be platforms for showcasing your project and accessing financial support. Participating in festivals and events can lead to sponsorships and collaboration opportunities.

10.6. Arts and Cultural Associations

Various associations and networks bring together artists, cultural professionals, and organizations. Becoming a member of these associations can help you connect with potential collaborators and funding sources.

10.7. Universities and Educational Institutions

Academic institutions often have cultural departments, cultural centers, and international programs that can support and collaborate on cultural initiatives.

When approaching potential collaborators, it's essential to develop clear proposals and demonstrate how the collaboration aligns with their interests and goals. Building strong, mutually beneficial relationships with collaborators can open doors to funding and support for your international cultural project.

Please note that the availability of funding and opportunities can change, and it's essential to stay updated on relevant sources of support and their requirements. Additionally, you should conduct thorough research and reach out to these organizations, institutions, and individuals directly to inquire about current opportunities and application procedures for your specific international cultural initiative.

3: Taxation

In recent years, a conservative trend of tightening fiscal policies in the United States has not only affected direct financial contributions but also had an impact on indirect funding mechanisms enjoyed by non-profit organizations, including the arts. Government tax laws at the federal, state, and local levels are being reviewed and tightened, resulting in a reduction of tax deductions. Individuals who contribute to arts organizations may see reductions in their tax deductions. They may also face tax exemptions for property and income when paying local and state taxes. Government entities at all levels are raising questions and reassessing these issues.

At the same time, state and local arts agencies are experimenting with and implementing new state-funded funding mechanisms. Some of these are marked as taxable income. The Association of Local Arts Agencies determines tax rates for income derived from commercial entertainment and sports, hotels, gambling and lotteries, and organizations that provide cultural preservation. These tax write-offs, other expenditures that can be deducted from income before taxation, show potential, but it is still too early to assess their long-term sustainability and development.

 4: Declining Volunteerism

The level of volunteer participation is on the decline, which serves as a warning for all fundraising efforts. Why is this happening? Specialized research in the arts does not provide specific conclusions, but studies on non-profit sectors in general suggest that Americans, burdened with overwork and family responsibilities, have very little time for volunteer activities. When engaging in volunteer activities, they seek immediate validation that they have made some tangible impact. Unlike non-profit service organizations for people, not many arts entities can guarantee such satisfaction for volunteers.

Chapter 5: Reduced Funding from Foundations

Since the 1990s, funding for the arts from arts grant-making foundations has decreased from 14% to 12.7%. During this time, funding for human services increased due to the government's cutbacks in this sector and the consequences of economic stagnation. To align with this trend, many arts organizations have shifted towards outward-facing programs, providing human services and community development. This transition has occurred without adequate prior training, and there hasn't been sufficient time to determine long-term approaches or outcomes.

 6: The Fate of Individual Artists

As previously mentioned, the funding from the National Endowment for the Arts was not earmarked for individual artists in 1995. The Center for Arts and Culture found that only 1/5 of foundations provide funding for individual artists. With the shift in funding mechanisms focusing more on social benefits, artists face greater challenges in seeking funding for their projects. Another consequence of the emphasis on "outward-facing" cultural programs is that it has blurred the recognition of specialized training and skills of artists, as innate creative talent and the training and development of artists are often seen as equivalent. In meetings with partners in other sectors, the necessity of having artists involved is often questioned. Further research and documentation are needed on how to address artist-related issues if they are considered important in collaborative funding, which could lead to new funding for their work.

 7: Arts Management, Arts Organizations, and the Profession

In an era of significant changes, leadership becomes a critical challenge. In the United States, leadership needs are being addressed at the national, state, and local levels, as well as in arts agencies. The training and preparation of arts managers are being reconsidered. In the 1970s and 1980s, the model applied to arts management was drawn from business administration. In the 1990s, the necessary skills for leading arts sectors over years of change have become more similar to social organization management skills, transcending artists and intermediary organizations. The challenge remains in how to train arts managers to become leaders.

Furthermore, salaries for professional arts managers are not as high as those in non-profit sectors. In the United States, it's relatively easy to switch between various professions across industries, and income inequality means that talented arts managers often move away from the arts to positions in public administration and business management.

The narrow salaries of professional arts managers, along with the increasing difficulty in fundraising, result in human resource issues, frequent management turnovers, and subsequently, a very high turnover rate.

(From FORD Foundation documentation)