Who is Funding the Grant and Why?
Authentic Asheville (@authenticasheville) is a team of two. We are Erin McGrady (@e.mcgrady, she/her) and Caroline Whatley @carolineperdue, she/her). We are two full-time Asheville based content creators who work in video, photography, drone, and writing. We are both self-taught and recognize the importance of having access to resources. To that end, we recognize that there are many barriers for people who are trying to get started or continue their journey in these creative fields and we would like to help support someone on theirs.
What is the Authentic Asheville BIPOC + LGBTQIA2S Creative Grant?
The grant is $500 USD. This is a grant to help people start or complete a project that they are working on. The grant can be used towards an artistic project. For example: the purchase of art supplies, gear, software, studio time, etc. It is open to BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA2S+ individuals only who are living within the Southeastern United States. You do not need to identify with both groups in order to apply.
When Does the Grant Open and When Does it Close?
The 2024 Grant will open on November 1, 2023 and will close on December 1, 2023 at 11:59 PM. Applicants will be notified of their status by January 17, 2024.
Who Are Previous Recipients of the Authentic Asheville BIPOC + LBGTQIA2S Creative Grant?
2023 Authentic Asheville BIPOC + LGBTQIA2S Creative Grant Recipient: Patricia Serrano, a bilingual Argentine journalist, audio producer, and podcaster based in Asheville, NC. She focuses on the Latine community in North Carolina and the complex underlying stories and relationships connecting people throughout the Americas. The grant supported Patricia’s work with Enlace Latino NC where she is the host, writer, and producer of the Enlace Latino Podcast which in 2023, celebrated it’s 5th season.
Will There Be a Creative Grant Every Year?
We sure hope so. At this point, our grant is privately funded by the two of us without outside support so things may change but we are budgeting for it each year to make it possible.
How Do I Apply?
When the creative grant opens, there will be a link to a Google Form that will allow you to apply. You’ll find that link via our bio on Instagram and here.
