The City of Savannah’s Cultural Affairs Commission has issued a “Call for Proposals” for the 2009 Contracts for Cultural Services program. The deadline for applications will be July 5 at 5 p.m.

In 2008, $990,000 was allocated 20 recipients for cultural programming within the City. In 2009, funding will be available in three categories: Cultural Education and Access; Festivals; and Cultural Tourism. Each category has specific funding criteria.

“Every year, the City requests proposals for cultural, artistic or heritage-based programming that aligns with the City Council’s priorities,” said Michelle Hunter, Cultural Affairs Coordinator for the Department of Cultural Affairs. “This year’s priorities include community development, education and skill development, citizen communication and economic development.”

To be eligible for consideration, an organization must have a non-profit 501(c) 3 status and be headquartered within City limits. Proposed programs must take place within City limits during the 2009 calendar year.

Submitted proposals will be reviewed by the Cultural Affairs Commission, whose recommendations will be sent to the City Manager. The City Manager submits those recommendations to Mayor and Council for final funding approval.

Free workshops will be held to explain the 2009 Contracts for Cultural Services process. The workshops will provide in depth explanations of funding categories, eligibility criteria, funding priorities and the appropriate way to complete the proposal forms. The workshops are open to the public.

Workshops will be held at the Department of Cultural Affairs’ office, located at 9 West Henry St., on the following dates:
•     Festival Applications: May 15 at 3 p.m.; May 17 at 10 a.m.; May 20 at 5:30 p.m. and June 9 at 9:30 a.m.
•     Cultural Education & Access Applications: May 9 at noon; May 15 at 1 p.m.; May 21 at 4 p.m.; June 5 at 5:30 p.m. and June 12 at 9:30 a.m.

Workshop dates and times are subject to change. Space is limited and registration is required. The deadline for application submission, whether by mail or hand delivery, is July 5 at 5 p.m. Late, incomplete, emailed or faxed applications will not be accepted.

For more information or to register for a workshop, please contact Michelle Hunter at (912) 525-3100 ext. 2847 or mhunter@savannahga.gov.

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