Detroit Knight Arts Challenge Winners from Knight FoundationBy Erica Perdue

In just one week, Detroiters will again have the chance to apply for funding for their arts idea through the Knight Arts Challenge.

The contest will open March 10 and run through April 7. Once again, there are just three rules:

1. The idea must be about the arts.
2. The project must take place in or benefit Detroit.
3. Grant recipients must find funds to match Knight’s commitment within a year).

The application only requires applicants do one thing: describe the arts project in 150 words or less. The challenge is open to everyone – artists and artist collectives of all types, businesses, established arts institutions, and any individual who has a great idea for the arts.

Knight Foundation awarded $2.1 million to 56 winners last year and is offering a share of $3 million again for arts and culture projects that engage and enrich Detroit.

The foundation will also be hosting Community Q&A sessions around Detroit, where Knight staff will provide application tips and answer questions. The schedule is below. So start brainstorming and visit Knightarts.org in one week to submit your idea!

Community Q&A sessions: Each begins at 6 p.m.

• Hamtramck:  Monday, March 24 at The Hamtramck Library (2360 Caniff St), co-hosted by HATCH Detroit
• Southwest Detroit: Tuesday, March 25 at 555 Gallery (2801 W. Vernor Hwy), co-hosted by 555 Gallery and Southwest Solutions
• Midtown: Wednesday, March 26 at The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History (315 E. Warren Ave), co-hosted by The Charles H. Wright Museum and several partners including Wayne State University
• Downtown: Thursday, March 27 at The Virgil A. Carr Center (311 E. Grand River Ave), co-hosted by Arts League of Michigan
• Northwest: Friday, March 28 at Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation (19800 Grand River Ave), co-hosted by  Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation

Be sure to sign up for Knight Foundation e-blasts to learn about upcoming Town Hall meetings and tips on how to present your winning idea.