The Coin Grant is a monthly grant program targeted to support individual artists within the ballroom scene preparing for participation in a Ball. These micro-grants, represent a financial contribution towards the comprehensive expenses associated with competition.
Purpose of the Grant:
The Coin Grant is not intended to fully fund all aspects of your ball preparation.
Instead, it is meant to offer meaningful support in areas where you may not otherwise have access to resources—whether that’s securing a key element of your look, traveling to a distant ball, or investing in creative services to bring your vision to life.
*We also understand that some category presentations involve larger concepts that may require collaboration with others—such as stylists, makeup artists, designers, or performance partners. While this is a grant for individual applicants, we’re open and flexible to discussing these collaborative needs and how the grant might support them. Be sure to mention any collaborators and their roles in your application.*
Guidelines for Applying and general information:
We’re looking for clear, creative, and adaptable concepts from individuals with active ties to the ballroom scene.
Your application should demonstrate intention, purpose, and a connection to the category you plan to walk.
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Applicants must have a genuine relationship with the ballroom scene.
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We prioritize Black, Latinx, Trans, and POC individuals.
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The Ball you're applying for must be taking place at least 30–60 days from the application deadline.
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This grant supports individual preparation for ballroom performance—not full events or group projects.
Eligible Expenses (may include but are not limited to:
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Effects, looks, and materials for category presentation
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Travel, lodging, and ball registration costs
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Hair, makeup, grooming, and creative services
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Rehearsal or studio space, performance coaching, or movement consulting
Applications Will Be Evaluated Based On:
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Strength and clarity of your concept and category interpretation
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Feasibility and execution of your vision
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Creativity and ingenuity in how you plan to show up
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The potential for your concept to contribute to ballroom’s evolving narrative
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Your category’s alignment with the tier and scale of the upcoming Ball
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Anticipated cultural and community impact
Next Steps:
Once your application is submitted and reviewed, if your concept aligns with the goals of The Coin Grant,
we will contact you via email to confirm next steps. This may include:
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A brief video conference to further discuss your concept and preparation
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A request for a letter of recommendation from your House Parent or a respected figure within the ballroom community
If selected, grantees will be notified via email. The final award amount will be communicated at that time based on the scope and scale of your proposal.
Evaluation criteria encompass a holistic consideration of artistic merit, innovation, and community engagement.
APPLICATIONS OPEN APRIL 1ST 12:00PM & WILL CLOSE APRIL 15TH 11:59 PM
