Questions on Funding?
Since 1997, Shelly Kneupper Tucker has been listed on the Texas Touring Artist Roster. What that means for presenters, is that a portion of her program fees could be funded by the Texas Commission on the Arts.
With the current economy, school finances are tight. You might wish to consider applying for funding.
Be aware that you must book early, because of TCA deadlines!
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Is my organization eligible for TCA funding?
A: If your organization is a Texas school, library, unit of government, or a non-profit organization, the answer is YES. TCA does not fund for-profit organizations. TCA cannot fund galas, fundraisers, private performances, or past events. The performance must be for the general public and/or school audiences.
Q: What is the grant program for this?
A: It is the Cultural Connections Performance Support, which allows presenters (you) to apply for a portion of the artistic fees of an approved company or artist from the TCA Touring Artists and Companies Roster. These applications are funded on a sliding scale based on a percentage of contracted fees ranging from 30%-50%. Funding is also dependent on the availability of TCA dollars, which can reduce the amount awarded.
Q: How do I access the Touring Artist Roster?
A: If you would like to see the other artists listed, visit www.arts.state.tx.us under the Grant Information section of the Performing Arts Touring Roster.
Q: How do I apply to TCA?
A: To access the grant, you must first sign up for a user name and password by calling TCA at 512/463-5535 extension zero or 800/252-9415 and speaking to a Program Staff member.
Q: How do I book a performing artist?
A: Quickly! Presenters are encouraged to consult with the artists to determine what costs are included in the fee (including travel fees). The presenter then enters into a formal contractual agreement with the artist specifying the date (s) of the engagement and the fee. The artist has their own contract that they will send you. A copy of the signed contract with the artist is a required attachment for your TCA grant application.
Q: When is the grant application deadline?
A: The deadline depends on the performance date.
For performances occurring: September 1-December 14, the deadline is August 1
For performances occurring: December 15-March 14, the deadline is November 1
For performances occurring: March 15-June 14, the deadline is February 1
For performances occurring: June 15-August 31, the deadline is May 1
Applications must be submitted electronically by midnight on the day of the deadline in order to be eligible. You must provide a copy of the signed contract between your organization and the performing artist. Funding decisions are made at the Commission’s quarterly board meetings.

