"Let's be realistic. No one wants to step up to the plate and write the big check," said a forum participant in opening the discussion about money. "Nor can we any longer expect foreign governments to keep underwriting the costs of international travel." Recognizing that the net dollars for funding international work are unlikely to change in the near future, participants focused on innovative approaches to funding, ways to share and limit costs, and financing options that can augment traditional funding approaches.

Think expansively about funding opportunities. By focusing on issues of economic development, tourism, and international relations, presenters may be able to tap new sources of revenue. Participants reported growing receptiveness to international work at some state arts agencies that are now working in tandem with state offices of economic development and trade. Consulates provide another useful resource-- both as direct funders and as conduits to international funders. Further, as corporations function increasingly in the global marketplace, they may demonstrate greater readiness to take on international projects. Enlisting their support in setting up peer-to-peer meetings could expand support for international work within the corporate community. Potentially support may also be tapped through new industries within the high-tech community that are just beginning to define their philanthropic profile.

Recognize distinctions between funding and financing. As presenters seek out support for their work, they must be attentive to issues of financing as well as funding. There needs to be greater self-education about exchange rates, increased contacts with the banking community, and financing plans that acknowledge and build upon the differences among economies. In a time of global economic uncertainty and change, attentiveness to financing issues becomes especially important.

Address gaps in the funding ecosystem and preserve effective programs. The delicate ecosystem that supports international work is undergoing strain, reported participants. Many funding programs came into being to complement efforts already underway. But as foundation priorities change, or as multi-year initiatives are not renewed, gaps are emerging, which are difficult to address. Participants called for improved lines of communication so there is advance warning about funding shifts and urged that the history of successful funding programs (such as the Suitcase Fund and USIA) be acknowledged and built upon.

Develop integrated approaches to commissioning work. To build a strong infrastructure for international work, an integrated approach to commissioning work is desirable. "If there is investment in consortia at the research and development phase, touring strategies will emerge," suggested a participant. The National Dance Project may offer a suggestive model of how costs and expertise can be shared.

Redefine the roles of managers and presenters: The monetary and logistical demands of international presenting are causing presenters and managers to work in difference ways: projects are expensive, traditional ways of transacting business are not always relevant, practical aspects of tour management and audience development can be daunting. "Ways of working that are optional in the domestic arena are mandatory in the international arena," observed a participant. "None of us can afford to be lone-rangers." Some managers are joining presenters as co-commissioners, funding partners, and collaborators in the creation of marketing and audience development strategies. At the same time, some presenters are taking on roles traditionally assumed by management in order to make tours happen. In this challenging period of flux, participants called for a summit on redefining the roles of presenters and managers for the 21st century.

next page

home / who we are / what we do / how to join / contact us

International Society for the Performing Arts Foundation
305 7th Ave., 5th Floor
New York, NY 10001-6008
USA
tel 212.206.8490
fax 212.206.8603
info@ispa.org
http://www.ispa.org/