The Generator Fund is a grant opportunity aimed at supporting visual arts projects that explore innovative directions in the creation and presentation of contemporary art. This initiative is part of the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Art’s Regional Regranting Program and is administered by the Buffalo Institute for Contemporary Art (BICA). The fund specifically targets artists, informal non-incorporated artist collectives, and independent curators and organizers whose work may not typically receive funding. The goal is to promote artistic activities beyond traditional studio settings, encourage collaboration, and foster new connections among artists in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and the surrounding suburban and rural areas.

The purpose of the Generator Fund is to provide financial support for projects that contribute to the visual arts landscape in New York, particularly in Erie and Niagara Counties. The fund aims to facilitate artistic expression and experimentation, encouraging projects that engage the public and stimulate dialogue within the community. By supporting these initiatives, the Generator Fund seeks to enhance the cultural fabric of the region and provide opportunities for artists to present their work in accessible formats.

Funding through the Generator Fund is available in two categories: Kinetic Grants and Potential Grants. Kinetic Grants offer awards of up to $2,000 to support the production of new projects that include a publicly accessible component. Potential Grants provide larger awards of up to $10,000, intended as seed funding for innovative, long-term platforms for artistic expression that promote collaboration and discourse. Both types of grants require that projects be firmly based in or related to the visual arts and that the lead organizer resides in Erie or Niagara Counties.

Eligibility for Kinetic Grants requires that the project supports the production of work intended for public exhibition, event, or release. Additionally, individuals receiving an honorarium for an exhibition at BICA during the same fiscal year are not eligible. For Potential Grants, the project must be new or significantly transformed, and organizations with 501c3 status at the time of submission are not eligible. All resulting project activities must be accessible to the public within the specified counties.

Applicants must adhere to specific submission requirements, which include providing detailed project descriptions and demonstrating how the project aligns with the fund's objectives. The application process may involve answering questions related to the project's impact, accessibility, and innovative aspects. Evaluation criteria will focus on the project's artistic merit, feasibility, and potential for community engagement.

The deadline for submitting applications for the Generator Fund is September 30, 2024. It is important for potential applicants to be aware of this timeline and prepare their submissions accordingly. For further information, interested parties can visit the Buffalo Institute for Contemporary Art's website or contact them directly via email. This grant represents a valuable opportunity for artists and organizers in the region to secure funding for their creative projects and contribute to the vibrant visual arts community in New York.