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How to Start a Successful Non-Profit Art Organization

June 30, 2022

Non-profit organizations take up different advocacies. One type of organization focuses on building the local arts scene and providing amateur creatives with a voice. This is known as a non-profit art organization. Whether it’s an artistic collective or a school that gives free art lessons, a non-profit art organization enjoys the same benefits as any non-profit organization.

There is more to taking up art advocacies than tax deductions and government grants. If you are planning to start a non-profit organization for artists, you need to know what it takes to build a successful one. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Set specific goals and advocacies

Before anything else, you need to define your objectives. What is pushing you to form an organization? Will this creative organization be a platform for addressing other issues such as the need to protect the environment, secure indigenous land, and improve literacy? Defining your purpose helps set you apart from other non-profits and reach out to potential donors who take up the same advocacies. It also allows you to plan the types of activities you will be organizing. 

2. Build your brand identity

Even non-profits need to invest in brand-building. It’s crucial as it helps spread awareness and add credibility to your projects and other activities. Not only that but you will make it easier for donors and potential partners to reach out. Consider coming up with a unique name for your non-profit art organization. You should also choose your brand colors and determine the tone and style you will be using when writing materials like brochures, e-books, and blogs. 

3. Start a network in the local arts scene

Who will make up the core team for your non-profit? It’s not enough to get friends and family members to join you in realizing this concept. You should also reach out to amateur and established artists in your community. From there, you can form partnerships with local art galleries, cafes, and art schools that can become potential venues for events. With a strong network of relevant personalities and groups, your non-profit will always have a source of funding and support for pursuing its goals.

4. Get incorporated

To qualify for tax deductions, your non-profit has to go through the process of incorporation. This is also crucial if you are planning to raise funds through public and private grants. All you need is to handle the paperwork and appoint a Board of Directors. If you are based in the United States, you are required to get an employer identification number through the IRS. You will need this number if you need to apply for licenses and secure loans. 

5. Come up with a fundraising strategy

Once you have everything you need to start your non-profit art organization, you should come up with a clear-cut plan on how you are going to generate income to finance your initiatives. There are numerous ideas to consider. You can organize an art auction, sell art materials, or establish a coffee shop for artists. You can also qualify for private and public grants for the arts..

Regardless of the nature of your non-profit art organization, you will need to go through these steps. That way, you will be on the right track to accomplishing your goals and helping your community in your own way. 

About the author

Jamie Moses

Jamie Moses founded Artvoice in 1990

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