SEMAC: Opportunity Grants

The SEMAC Opportunity Grants provide vital support to nonprofit arts organizations and educational institutions for unexpected projects. These grants do not require matching funds and are available to eligible applicants in southeastern Minnesota. Organizations can apply twice per fiscal year, with projects needing to be completed within twelve months. The application deadline is fifteen days before the project start date, ensuring timely funding for artistic initiatives that benefit the community.

NOTE: The deadline for receipt of Opportunity Grants applications is fifteen days prior to the intended start date.
Opportunity grants provide nominal assistance to nonprofit arts organizations and schools or educational institutions for sudden projects intended to enable them to take advantage of opportunities that arise with little advance notice
Opportunity Grants do not require matching funds.The deadline for receipt of Opportunity Grants applications is fifteen days prior to the intended start date.

Eligibility

Recipients of Opportunity Grants are eligible to apply twice in a given fiscal year (July 1 to June 30) if funds are available.Individuals and groups seeking to apply for SEMAC funding are strictly held to the following qualifications:The applicant is located in the 11-county SEMAC Region of southeastern Minnesota: Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona Counties.
The primary focus of the proposal is the fine arts, i.e., the development, education, performance and/or showcasing of the arts.
The proposed project includes a public component or Capstone Event to benefit the citizens of southeastern Minnesota.
The project may not begin until at least sixty days after the grant deadline. The project must be completed within twelve months.
Demonstrates the high quality of the arts products, services, or activities they provide as well as their impact on the community.
Has a Board of Directors that meets on a regular basis.
A recognized nonprofit, with Articles of Incorporation on file with the State of Minnesota. Public schools and local government entities also qualify.
Is federal tax exempt, with 501(c)(3) or comparable status under the Internal Revenue Code. For programming grants, organizations in the process of achieving tax-exempt status may use a Fiscal Sponsor within Minnesota that is both tax-exempt and a nonprofit organization who has agreed to receive and disburse SEMAC funds.

Ineligibility

Note that expenses related to building and/or facility improvements are NOT eligible in the Opportunity Grant category.