Frequently Asked Questions
Does ArtsFunder write my grant for me?
No. ArtsFunder helps structure your application in assessor language, but you provide all the substance. AI reads funder guidelines and organizes your responses into sections—it doesn't write creative narratives or invent project details. Every word is yours to edit.
What's a [YOU:] slot?
When ArtsFunder needs information it doesn't have (like audience numbers, past project dates, or partnership details), it leaves a [YOU:] slot with specific instructions. Example: '[YOU: Insert 2023 attendance figures for your last mainstage production]'. We never fabricate facts.
Is funding guaranteed if I use ArtsFunder?
No. Arts grants are competitive—typical success rates are 10-30% depending on the program. ArtsFunder helps you structure a stronger application, but assessors still judge artistic merit, feasibility, and alignment with funder priorities. Better structure helps; it doesn't guarantee funding.
What are the odds of getting funded?
It varies widely. Major programs like Australia Council for the Arts have success rates around 15-25%. State arts agencies range from 10-40% depending on the program. Some niche grants have higher success rates (40-60%) but smaller pools. ArtsFunder shows 'What Assessors Reward' for each grant to help you understand priorities.
Can I edit the AI-generated draft?
Yes—you must. The draft is a starting point in assessor language. You should add detail, adjust tone, remove anything that doesn't sound like you, and fill all [YOU:] slots with real information. The application is yours to shape.
Does ArtsFunder know my track record?
No. We ask questions during the Table Read, but we don't have access to your past productions, audience data, or financial records. If you don't provide this information, we leave [YOU:] slots. We never guess or fabricate track record claims.
Is the Living List always accurate?
We verify grants manually and show last_verified dates, but funder deadlines can change. Always check the funder's official source (we link to it) before submitting. Report any discrepancies so we can update the list.
Does ArtsFunder cost money?
The Living List is free. AI-assisted draft generation uses a credit system: A$10 for table read only, A$49 for one complete draft, A$179 for five drafts. Payments are currently deferred while we validate the product with early users.
Who verifies the grants on the Living List?
We do, manually. We check funder websites, note assessor priorities, and track deadline changes. The list is maintained by people who understand Australian theatre funding.
Can ArtsFunder help with other art forms or countries?
Not yet. We started with Australian theatre because that's the sector we know. We'll expand to other disciplines (dance, music, visual arts) and countries (UK, Canada) once we've proven the model works here.
What if my draft is over the character limit?
ArtsFunder shows character counts and warns when you're over. You can edit the draft down yourself or use the 'Tighten to fit' feature (planned) to reduce length while preserving key points.
Does ArtsFunder share my application with funders?
Never. Your drafts are private. We don't share applications, track success rates per funder, or report back to grant agencies. What you write is yours.
Have a question not answered here? Check How It Works or About ArtsFunder.