Populus Fund

Populus Fund is a new regranting initiative organized by The Union, through the generous support of The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts in order to support innovative artist projects throughout Omaha–Lincoln metros. Populus Fund was founded to provide essential support for projects that expand our understanding of how art exists in the world, address community needs, and exemplify new ways of working in, for, and with the public.

Applications for the First Round of Populus Fund $1,000 Emergency Grants are Now Closed

In the midst of multiple pandemics, many artists are in need of critical financial support. Populus Fund’s inaugural grants were designated as unrestricted emergency funds to support vital needs such as medical bills, rent, debts, and food. The Fund awarded ninety-six $1000 grants using a weighted lottery system for a total of $96,000 awarded to artists by the end of 2020.

To be eligible, artists must be able to say “yes” to ALL of the following:

• I am a visual/multidisciplinary artist working within the following disciplines: painting / drawing / sculpture / book art / ceramics / fiber / printmaking / digital/media works / film / video / photography / performance art / sound art / social practice and/or hybrid or interdisciplinary practice of any/all of the above;
• I live within a 75 mile radius of the Omaha metro;
• I am 18 or older;
• I can provide a W9 and Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) once selected to receive an award;
• I have experienced financial impact due to COVID-19;
• I can demonstrate an ongoing commitment to my artistic practice over the last two years;
• I am not a staff or board member of The Union for Contemporary Art or The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts (nor do I have immediate family relation to staff or board members of either organization).

Understanding the long-reaching effects of systemic racism and injustice, The Union will prioritize BIPOC applicants during this round of funding. It is our goal to give at least 55% of our awards to BIPOC artists. For full eligibility requirements + to learn about our weighted lottery process, visit our FAQ page.

APPLICATION TIMELINE (APPLICATIONS NOW CLOSED)

Applications opened October 15. There were 4 weighted lottery draw cycles. Applications received by 10/23 were considered in all lottery draws. All eligible applications remained in the lottery for future cycles, no need to re-apply.

OCT 15 - Applications open
CYCLE 1: 10/23 (11:59 PM) deadline
CYCLE 2: 11/5 (11:59 PM) deadline
CYCLE 3: 11/20 (11:59 PM) deadline
CYCLE 4: 12/4 (11:59 PM) deadline

QUESTIONS

Curious about something that is not answered above or on the FAQ page? Drop us a question at populusfund@u-ca.org.

SUPPORT

If you are interested in expanding our support for artists by contributing to the Populus Fund to, please contact our Manager of Individual Giving Caitlin LaVelle, caitlin@u-ca.org.