University of Maine Arts Initiative (UMAI) Seed Grant RFP
The University of Maine Arts Initiative (UMAI) is pleased to announce another round of competitive seed grants to create and enhance collaborations across the arts at the University of Maine (UMaine) and University of Maine at Machias (UMM).
The purpose of the UMAI seed grant program is to encourage innovative and interdisciplinary collaborations that seek to build a diverse, inclusive, sustainable, and equitable community of art researchers, practitioners, supporters, and promoters. Projects can be curriculum-based, public-facing, community-oriented or campus-specific, and are intended to fulfill the mission of the University of Maine Arts Initiative to “advance the integral role of the arts in enriching the lives of individuals and communities through the creation, experience, research, and enjoyment of the arts.”
A limited number of up to twelve-month projects will range from $5,000 to $10,000 and are intended to support new interdisciplinary collaborations centered in the arts. Faculty and professional staff are allowed to be lead-PIs on one proposal, and be co-investigator on up to three proposal submissions. Research teams must be led by UM or UMM members. Salary or compensation for non-UMaine or UMM personnel is not allowable.
Initial projects should aim to inspire further collaborations, and seek to engage new partners and audiences on an ongoing basis. Projects are expected to be transformative, innovative and collaborative including at least one art discipline or unit and should lead to future proposals to Federal and State agencies, foundations, and other external funding sources for future support of both existing and pilot initiatives.
The UMAI was launched in 2021 by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Dean of the Graduate School (OVPRDGS), and is a collaborative of faculty, administrators, staff, and students committed to the principle that the arts play an integral role in public research institutions. The initiative seeks to increase resources and support for the arts in order to reinforce their significance and enhance their visibility on campus and beyond.
Application deadline: Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on October 20th, 2022. Late applications will not be accepted or reviewed.
Proposals must be submitted via the UMaine InfoReady Portal, which is now open for submissions.
Contact: research@maine.edu