la bauta said:
"Systems Development" sounds like it could have been used to pay salaries too, but that's just a guess.
la bauta said:
Regarding the $20,000 GCAC "boost grant" for "systems development", found this on a Google cached page from the now-defunct udderpaper (haven't verified if these figures are accurate):
Seems everyone is getting hung up on this "systems development" phrase, but there's no secret about a BOOST grant. The enterprising feller might google it, but imma help out.
http://58cf7a0ebb6c3c00129b7eb2588312034956a71e.gripelements.com/docs/Guidelines/2011_grant_guidelines__full_.pdf
page 25.
PURPOSE
BOOST is a capacity-building program supporting the governance, leadership, technology and
professional development needs of not-for-profit arts organizations. Applicants are
encouraged to make a long-term commitment to continuous improvement and to develop
skills that result in benefits not only to the organization, but to the larger arts community.
The BOOST program is funded by the city of Columbus. Views expressed by the program and
its grant recipients do not necessarily represent those of the city of Columbus.
WHAT THE PROGRAM SUPPORTS
GCAC accepts applications in the following categories:
Broadening operational capacity
When an organization finds itself in a situation where expansion of existing capacity is necessary to improve efficiencies or continued growth, GCAC provides funding to obtain resources or expertise to guide and implement operational upgrades. Applications should be clear about long term maintenance when presenting first time activity. For example, expenses related to an upgrade of technology to launch a donor relations management system for the organization or consultant services to implement an online volunteer engagement program would be eligible under this category.
Strengthening governance and leadership
Healthy organizations are vital to the stability of the arts and cultural community. GCAC recognizes that smaller organizations may lack the resources required to continue growth and
evolution through the strengthening of infrastructure. Applications should include long-term benefits and maintenance. Examples of eligible activity include expenses related to a board retreat, strategic or long-term planning or an external financial audit. Facilitating entrepreneurial endeavors that will enhance or directly benefit the arts community. Entrepreneurial spirit is critical to the health of a community and contributes to economic growth, especially in the arts and cultural sector. In some situations, certain aspects of startup costs can be offset through this program, for example, consultants, strategic planning, board development, etc. These requests will be
considered on a case-by-case basis. Interested applicants should schedule a meeting with Grants & Services staff prior to submission of an application.
Capital expenditures, such as building construction/renovation, major equipment purchases, supplies, etc. are not eligible for funding.
Supporting professional development
The ability to continue enhancing the skills of staff members is integral to the growth of an organization. Small grants of up to $1,000 to offset the costs of professional development opportunities for organizational staff will be accepted. For example, traditional business skill
seminars or discipline specific conferences would be eligible for support under this category. Individuals not associated with an organization may qualify for professional development assistance under GCAC’s Artists in the Community program. See SECTION 5: ARTISTS IN THE COMMUNITY for more information.
FUNDING RESTRICTIONS
The BOOST program is not intended to fund the following situations:
- Lobbying expenses;
- Tuition for academic study;
- Activities that have been delivered in the same way for the same purpose on anongoing basis. Examples include production of annual reports, annual marketing
expenses, grant writing or other ongoing usual costs of doing business;
- Production or presentation of a cultural event; and
- Requests for continuation of projects previously funded by this program, without significant justification of new need.
GRANT