The Puppeteers of America Rose Endowment Fund was established in 1975 to honor the passing of a fine performer and great friend of puppetry, Rufus Rose. The Endowment Fund makes possible financial grants to active puppeteers for projects that will further the growth and development of the art of puppetry.
Contributions to the fund are invested and every other year awards are made from the interest that has accumulated. Awards generally range from $500 to $1000.
An Endowment Fund contribution is a fitting way to honor a departed friend of puppetry or to express thanks to a consultant, committee or guild. It is also a concrete way to express interest in and dedication to the art of puppetry. Contributions to the fund are tax deductible. As this fund grows, more money will be available for the financing of worthy projects.
CRITERIA FOR FUNDING
The first priority of the Endowment Fund Committee is the allocation of funds to support the development and creation of NEW PROFESSIONAL PUPPET PRODUCTIONS.
These can include:
- The production of new shows
- The creation of experimental puppets or techniques
- The production of puppet-related films, DVDs, videos, slide shows or publications
After production grants have been awarded, and if funds are available, puppetry projects in the field of education will be considered.
Any North American puppet company or individual puppeteer may apply for a grant from the Endowment Fund. Either the person making the application or one member of the applying company must be a current member of Puppeteers of America.
In general the Endowment Fund Committee will not fund transportation, living expenses, tours or performance bookings. Grants for equipment will be considered only if a specialized need can be demonstrated.
Proposals and requests for Endowment Fund grants are judged on the following criteria:
QUALITY: Is the project well developed, is it feasible, is the budget realistic?
CREDIBILITY: Based on your past performances and on recommendations. Visuals and a script outline are important.
IMPACT: Will the project serve as a pilot? Will it stimulate further activity? Will it help develop an artist or group? How large an audience will it reach?
DEADLINES
Grant applications are due by: April 15, 2017Awards will be determined by mid-June, 2017
Money award will be available by the PofA National Festival, July 18-22, 2017