The Nigerian creative scene is notoriously cutthroat, so let’s be honest.
On top of managing client work, passion projects, and limited resources, you’re also under continual pressure to “blow.”
What if, however, you could find a way to finance the expansion of your ideas without going bankrupt?
That is the function of grants. Yes, it is open to everyone, not just tech dudes and NGOs.
we will teach you how to write a proposal from scratch even if you are a creative in Nigeria and want to apply for a grant.
The Grant Process (And Why Is It Important for Artists)?
You are not obligated to repay a grant. Governments, organizations, or brands provide free funding to help your labor, business, or project.
Particularly beneficial are grants for:
Artists presenting exhibitions, filmmakers in need of funding to shoot, designers establishing a creative hub, writers producing books, and creatives constructing community platforms
It’s not a term loan. Yeah, it’s not “awoof
For artists and writers in Nigeria, the most common forms of funding are:
1. Grants for Art and Culture
Documentaries, plays, novels, and conventional art forms all benefit from this.
Cases in point:
The ArtX Prize (for visual artists)
The Prince Claus Seed Awards
The British Council Cultural Exchange
2. Grants for Businesses or Startups
For innovative business owners constructing a scalable enterprise, such as a media platform, product line, or design firm.
Cases in point:
A Grant from the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF)
Youth-focused organizations in Nigeria include YouWiN Connect and Orange Corners.
3.Foundations & Programs Abroad
These provide you with opportunity to travel, network, and advance, as well as financial support.
Cases in point:
Fellowship at the Goethe-Institut
Mandela Washington Fellowship
Fund for African Cultural Expression
If you want to stay up-to-date, follow creative hubs on Instagram, such as @CcHubNigeria, @BritishCouncilNigeria, or @ArtXLagos.
The second step is to define your project or vision clearly.
Make sure you answer this before you apply for a grant:
“My goal with this sum of money is to…”
“I am planning to make a documentary that will focus on female graffiti artists in Lagos.”
To establish my personal brand, I require financial resources.
Step 3: Gather the Essential Documents
What is typically requested in grant applications is:
- Your resume or creative portfolio
- Any relevant links to your work (such as Behance, YouTube, or Instagram)
- Optimal but not must letters of recommendation
You should always be prepared by keeping a folder containing all of these on Google Drive.
Step 5: Crafting an Attention-Grabbing Grant Application
Clarity and impact are more important than fancy grammar when writing a grant request.
Follow this straightforward diagram:
1. Greetings: May I ask who you are and what you do for a living?
2. Statement of the Problem: Tell me what opportunity or problem you are trying to solve.
3. Your Approach: Could you please describe your project or idea?
4. What makes you and your team the best choice to carry it out?
5. Who and how will the impact be felt?
6. In the budget overview, please specify how the monies will be spent.
Unless explicitly specified otherwise, make sure it is less than 1,000 words. Be explicit and use bullet points.
Next Steps: After Application Submission
Remember to capture a record(either by taking a picture of your submission or by saving the confirmation email)
If a contact email is supplied, make sure to follow up with them
Keep applying the majority of individuals don’t succeed on their first try Network with groups; winning isn’t everything.
Remember to document your project, tag your sponsors, and publish the impact when you win. This will help establish your reputation for future donations.
Conclusion
Having “Connections” Is Not Necessary to Secure a Grant
Obtaining financial support as an artist in Nigeria is not an urban legend. It is, in fact, competitive. The good news is that you can pull it off without knowing a senator or fabricating your resume.
All you need is a well-defined, interesting project, the correct platforms, a solid, truthful application, and constant visibility.
You have the right to be creative. What you do is important.
Additionally, a grant is out there for someone exactly like you to apply.
