Earlier this week, we opened the Knight Arts Challenge in St. Paul, where we’re looking to fund innovative ideas for the arts. Since this is the challenge’s first year in St. Paul, we thought we’d compile a list of resources and strategies on how to best approach your application ahead of the May 5 deadline.

Here they are:

• If you’re looking to get inspired, check out our catalog of every project that has won the challenge in the three other cities where it has taken place: Miami, Detroit and Philadelphia. We also have a multimedia report, including video interviews with past winners, on the effect of the challenge in South Florida.
• If you have questions, read our FAQ and attend one of our Community Q&A meetings the week of April 13. They are taking place across St. Paul, with one scheduled for Minneapolis.
• If you’re already working on an idea, be sure to read this post on how to make your idea stand out. Remember, we love it when people think outside the box. Innovation is encouraged.
• Several years ago, I offered insider tips for potential applicants in a Q&A with the Miami New Times. I described things like how many applications we’ve gotten in the past and the process by which the winners are selected.

And don’t forget that anyone, anywhere can apply. There are just three simple rules: 1. The idea is about the arts; 2. The project takes place in or benefits St. Paul and 3. You must find funding to match the Knight Foundation grant.

To stay up-to-date on the latest Knight Arts Challenge news, follow @knightarts on Twitter, tweet at us using the hashtag #knightarts and join the conversation on our Knight Arts Challenge Facebook page.

Get cracking – we’re excited to see what you come up with!