Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) issues Request for Proposals (RFP) for Symphony Economic Recovery Program
LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Symphony Economic Recovery Program, a new, one-time initiative aimed at supporting and advancing Michigan’s symphony orchestras. With a total of $5.65 million in need-based grants available, eligible orchestras can apply for awards up to $500,000 for projects and expenditures that enhance their sustainability and reach.
"Through this significant investment in Michigan's cultural landscape, we are not only helping symphonies recover and thrive, but we are also ensuring that arts and culture remain a vital part of our communities," said Susan Corbin, LEO Director. "This initiative aligns with our vision to make Michigan a place where all people, businesses and communities have the economic means and personal freedoms to reach their full potential."
The grant period will run through Sept. 30, 2029, and funding can be used for a wide range of purposes, including:
- Employment support for artistic and administrative personnel.
- Concert production, including equipment, broadcasts and recordings.
- Capital improvements and facility maintenance or rental.
- Education and community engagement initiatives.
- Marketing and promotion efforts.
- General operations and administrative expenses.
- Consultant and training fees for organizational development, such as strategic planning, coalition building and grant writing.
- Health and safety supplies.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
- Be a symphony orchestra (including community orchestras, tuition-based youth orchestras, chamber orchestras, sinfoniettas and regional or full-time orchestras).
- Offer public programs and performances.
- Demonstrate financial need.
Application Process and Key Dates
Grant applications must be submitted electronically through the LEO EGrAMS website by 3 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024. A pre-application conference will be held on Nov. 4, 2024, at 10 a.m., offering guidance on the application process and the use of the EGrAMS system – interested applicants can join via Microsoft Teams.
Office Hours
Office hours will be offered every Thursday at 10 a.m. EDT while the application is open. All potential applicants are welcome to join to get technical assistance or ask programmatical questions. Office hour meetings will be recorded, and links will be posted to the LEO-EGrAMS website for all to view.
For more information or to apply, visit the LEO EGrAMS Website and then click on “See Current Grants” and then click on the “SERP-2024” and then click “user document” tab and you will find the RFP document and other documents that are needed.
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