Our latest effort began in August, when we announced three $10,000 DEIB grants available to theatre members in good standing. The deadline for 2023 has now passed, but please read on for more information about this important new initiative.
What would you do to advance DEIB efforts at your organization if you were given $10,000? Would you educate your staff? Would you offer new programming? Would you strive to see greater diversity around your boardroom? Maybe there is an underserved population within your community whose voices need to be amplified. Could your stage be their megaphone?
Proposals should be for DEIB initiatives that can be achieved with at least a $10,000 grant. Budgets can be larger than the grant amount. There are only three grants to be given, one to each of the following categories: live performances spaces with budgets exceeding $1 million, live performance spaces with budgets under $1 million, and film houses of any size. You will be competing with the very best historic theatres in the nation. We can't wait to see what you propose.
- Timeline
- August 15, 2023 - Application Portal Opens.
- October 1, 2023 - Deadline to apply is midnight.
- December 2023 - Awardees will be notified and monies disbursed.
- January-July 2024 - DEIB projects must begin, however, the work can continue past July. You simply must be far enough along in your work to be able to give a presentation about your efforts at the LHAT National Conference in July. (place and time TBA)
- December 2024 - Projects completed, and a final report submitted to LHAT in the form of an article for the InLeague Magazine.
The LHAT DEIB Grant Initiative was born out of a desire to foster the long-held belief that the arts have the power to change stereotypes, open minds and heal hearts. Our membership of almost 400 historic theatres and 70+ service providers touch tens of millions of artists, patrons, and employees each year.
The League has a proven record of disseminating best practices and creating networking opportunities so that theatre operators can learn from one another. Simply put: What starts here could truly change the world.
We know that what you think might happen might not happen the way you envisioned, or it might not happen at all. Start with a good idea. If it doesn't work, that's okay. We can all learn from what worked as well as what didn't.
More information will be disseminated at the national conference and an official call for proposals will follow. All members will receive the RFP announcement so stay tuned to your inboxes.
- FAQ
- If we are paying our membership in monthly installments, can we still apply?
- Yes. You may apply if your payment installments are up to date.
- If we operate as a for-profit, can we still apply for a grant?
- Yes. However, as a for-profit entity you will be receiving funds for services rather than a grant. LHAT will be paying you to develop a DEIB program that can be presented at the national conference. You will be responsible for any taxes owed just as you would for any other earned revenue you receive.
- What if our theatre is not open and/or operating yet? Can we still apply?
- Yes. DEIB work can begin as you prepare for your eventual re-opening. Maybe this work will help galvanize your community around your opening.
- How does LHAT define DEIB work?
- Actually, the question is how YOU define DEIB work. Theatres operate differently in different communities. We leave it up to you to define what DEIB means for your organization within the community you serve. We are open-minded to many possibilities that might exist.
- Can an Allied Member or Subscriber Member apply?
- No. These grants are currently only available to Theatre Members in good standing.
- What if my project will cost more than $10,000?
- You are welcome to match this grant with any other funding opportunities. Your project budget must be at least $10,000 but you can use this grant as part of a large initiative. Just keep in mind the stated deadlines if you are waiting on additional funding. You must have begun your work in January of 2024.
- Do I need to be a 501(c)3 organization?
- No. But you do need to be able to accept revenues and track your expenditures. The League expects to see an accounting of how funds were used/spent. If you are not operating as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, please consult with an accountant or other financial advisors to ensure that you understand the tax and legal ramifications of accepting a grant or funds for service (see #2).