The Future of Dance Funding: Beyond the Three-Legged Stool
A chilling wind is sweeping through the dance world. Foundations that once reliably supported the art form – the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, Doris Duke Foundation, and Ford Foundation – are shifting priorities. The National Dance Project has paused applications. Even the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has faced unprecedented disruption, with canceled grants and a drastically reduced staff. This isn’t just a temporary setback; it’s a reckoning forcing the sector to confront a fundamental question: how will dance survive – and thrive – in a rapidly changing philanthropic landscape?
The Shifting Sands of Support
For decades, dance organizations have relied on a traditional funding model – a “three-legged stool” of public support, private contributions, and earned revenue. But each leg is weakening. Public funding, as evidenced by the NEA’s struggles, is increasingly precarious. Audiences, while returning post-pandemic, haven’t fully rebounded. And foundation funding, once a stable pillar, is becoming more unpredictable. “It’s the loss of federal funding alongside foundations shifting focus that’s been a double whammy,” says Pamela Tatge, executive and artistic director of Jacob’s Pillow. This instability isn’t new, but the speed of change is alarming, according to Ra Joy, former NEA chief of staff.
Beyond Grants: A New Philanthropic Model
The crisis is prompting innovative responses. Chicago Human Rhythm Project, for example, is pioneering a new philanthropic model focused on long-term donor commitments tied to specific organizational needs – artistic innovation, community engagement, and sustainable operations. This approach, as founder Lane Alexander explains, aims to build a “scaffold” of support, moving away from the unpredictable cycle of annual or bi-annual grants. This shift reflects a broader trend towards more flexible and unrestricted funding, prioritizing direct support to artists rather than institutions.
The Rise of Artist-Centric Funding
While potentially beneficial, this recalibration isn’t without its challenges. Unrestricted grants to individual artists require guidance and mentorship to ensure strategic impact. Simply providing funds isn’t enough; artists need support in developing sustainable careers and maximizing their creative potential. This also raises questions about equity and access – ensuring that these opportunities reach a diverse range of artists.
The Utah Model: A Local Success Story
Not all organizations are facing the same level of disruption. Ballet West in Salt Lake City benefits from the ZAP sales tax, a dedicated funding stream approved by voters. This provides a crucial safety net, demonstrating the power of local, sustained public investment in the arts. However, even Ballet West recognizes the need for diversification, actively pursuing new fundraising avenues and expanding earned revenue streams. “We’re constantly looking to diversify,” says executive director Michael Scolamiero, highlighting the importance of proactive adaptation.
Dance’s Unique Challenges & The Gender Funding Gap
The dance sector faces unique hurdles. Allyson Esposito, managing director of Good Chaos, points out that dance consistently receives the least philanthropic support of all art forms. Furthermore, the field has been slow to embrace innovation in business models, technology, and audience engagement. Adding to this complexity is a significant gender disparity in philanthropic giving. Liza Yntema, founder of Dance Data Project, emphasizes that women, who are poised to inherit the majority of wealth, approach philanthropy differently than men – prioritizing research, societal impact, and collaborative giving. The performing arts world, she argues, needs to adapt its fundraising strategies to appeal to this emerging donor base.
Reaching the Next Generation of Donors
Yntema’s own philanthropic efforts, such as underwriting childcare for a resident choreographer, demonstrate the power of targeted, impactful investments. This approach resonates with female donors who value tangible results and a commitment to supporting artists’ holistic well-being. It’s a shift away from traditional “naming rights” and towards a more values-driven approach to giving.
The Path Forward: Creativity, Diversification, and a Reimagined Value Proposition
The current crisis isn’t simply a funding problem; it’s an opportunity to fundamentally rethink the value of dance and its role in society. Organizations must embrace creativity, diversify revenue streams, and cultivate deeper relationships with donors. This requires a shift in mindset – approaching fundraising with the same passion and innovation that defines artistic creation. The future of dance depends on its ability to demonstrate its relevance, impact, and enduring power to connect and inspire. What are your predictions for the future of **dance funding**? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
