FAQ

Do you fund graduate student groups?

No. Arts at Michigan is unable to fund graduate student projects, our list of Other Funding Sources may be helpful to graduate students searching for funding.

Do you provide funding for food or beverages?

No.

Do you provide retroactive funding?

No, SMG's are only for upcoming projects. The date of the event must occur after the given notification date to be considered for funding.

What if my group donates some of its proceeds to charity, can we still apply for a SMG award?

Yes, you can, as long as you indicate on your application that you have (or are in the process of getting) set up a Designated Fund (DF) account, in addition to your regular SOAS account, for your specific charitable cause. For more information about setting up a DF account call SOAS at (734) 763-5767.

How much money can I get for my student group?

The maximum amount of an SMG award is $1,000. For example, the average award amount during the 2004-2005 academic year was $396.25. In that year funding was awarded to 52.5% of applicants.

What can I do to improve my application?

  1. Write it as a Word document first. Have other people in your student group (or your mom, or your roommate) proofread it. Ask them if they understand what you've written and if they would award you a grant based on the application.
  2. Write it ahead of time and bring it in to us — we're always happy to look over potential applications and make suggestions for improvement. You can also call us at 734.764.6413 or email arts.grants@umich.edu with questions.
  3. Look at the Sample Application on our website.
  4. Keep the application succinct and to-the-point.
  5. Try to answer all the optional fields and questions.
  6. Make sure your math and budget add up.
  7. Never ask for more than $1,000. It shows us that you haven't read our guidelines.

Will my application be saved online?

No. Once you have submitted your application online you will not be able to access it again. We recommend that you save a copy of your application as a Word document so that you can reference it easily in the future.

How will I know if my application has been granted funding?

Whether or not your application has been awarded funding, you will be notified by e-mail on or before the appropriate notification date. Click here for the exact notification dates.

What do I have to do if my group receives a SMG award?

We require you to use the Arts at Michigan logo in all printed and web material (flyers, posters, programs, websites etc.) related to your funded event. The applicant is required to complete the Student Mini-Grant Feedback form (linked on the main page), as well as solicit feedback from activity participants. You are also responsible for informing us of any major changes in your planned activity (i.e. change of date, time, venue, name).

Can make an appeal if my group doesn't receive a SMG award?

Sorry, the decision of the Student Mini-Grant committee is final. We cannot consider appeals for funding.

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