PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Bulgarian-American Cultural Society of California (BACES) Grants program seeks to promote and strengthen the Bulgarian culture and traditions in California. Our mission is to deepen the understanding of Bulgarian values and introduce Bulgarian culture to a wider audience. We also recognize the importance of cultural practices for the vitality of our own community. As immigrants, we are far from the living culture of our country but cultural activities, celebrations, and gatherings bring us closer not only to our roots but also to the current cultural life in Bulgaria. Beyond mere entertainment, bringing Bulgarian cultural production to California reinforces the connection to the past, maintains our cultural identity as Bulgarians and serves as a generational link ensuring the continuity of Bulgarian traditions and values. In addition, these practices create spaces of inclusion where all community members can participate and connect.

We are seeking proposals that will have an impact on the Bulgarian community and beyond. We recognize that this work can take various shapes and forms.

WHAT WE FUND – ways to foster a sense of pride in Bulgarian culture and heritage and promote cross-cultural exchange and understanding.

  • Cultural Festivals, Performances, and Events: These could feature theater, traditional music, dance performances, culinary delights, arts and crafts exhibitions, film screenings, and educational workshops on Bulgarian history and customs.
  • Heritage Programs: Develop heritage programs for both children and adults. These could include Bulgarian history seminars, folklore workshops, and traditional dance lessons.
  • Artistic Exchanges and Collaborations: Facilitate artistic exchanges and collaborations between Bulgarian and Californian artists. This could involve inviting Bulgarian musicians, dancers, visual artists, and writers to California for performances, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges. Similarly, Californian artists could have opportunities to showcase their work in Bulgaria, promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
  • Cultural Publications and Media: Support the production of cultural publications, documentaries, and multimedia projects that highlight Bulgarian culture and traditions. These could include books, magazines, films, and digital content exploring various aspects of Bulgarian history, folklore, cuisine, and contemporary life.
  • Youth Empowerment and Leadership: Create youth-focused programs aimed at empowering the next generation of Bulgarian-Americans. This could include leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and youth-led cultural initiatives.
  • Digital Platforms and Online Resources: Develop digital platforms and online resources to connect the Bulgarian community in California and beyond. This could include websites, social media channels, and virtual events that provide access to cultural content, educational resources, and networking opportunities.

WHAT WE DO NOT FUND

  • General operating support
  • Projects whose main purpose is fundraising
  • 100% of the project expenses (BACES funding should be no more than 80% of the entire proposed budget)
  • Out-of-state travel
  • One-on-one apprenticeship
  • Proposals for multiple components of the same event

WHO IS ELIGIBLE

  • California-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations which align with, or the project they apply for aligns with, the purpose(s) of BACES.
  • California based communities, groups, or individuals (BACES members or non-member) who do not have that status may apply.
  • Applicants must have an organizational budget under$ 100,000.

HOW MUCH ARE THE GRANTS? HOW MANY WILL BE AWARDED?

In 2024, we will be making approximately 5 grants of up to $1000 each and 5 smaller grants of up to $500 each.

BACES grant should cover a portion of the proposed project. The entire proposed budget for the project shall be part of the application, including information on how the rest of the funds will be generated (sponsorships, fundraising, etc).

An organizational budget form is also required for the applying organization (not for individuals).

WHAT IS THE TIMEFRAME FOR THE BACES GRANT?

Funded activities should take place within one year after the funding becomes available.

WHEN IS THE DEADLINE?

In 2024, we will accept applications on a rolling basis; however, the review process can take up to 12 weeks. Therefore, applicants should plan at least three months of processing time before the start of the planned activities.

REVIEW PROCESS AND CRITERIA

Each proposal will be evaluated by the Grants Committee and recommended for approval by the BACES Board of Directors with the following criteria in mind:

  • Alignment of the project with BACES mission and purpose
  • Impact and cultural significance for the Bulgarian community
  • Enhancement of understanding and appreciation of Bulgarian culture for a wider community
  • Inclusion of young people and children in the various phases of the project implementation
  • Potential for long-term benefit for BACES and the Bulgarian community

APPLICATION

  1. Application cover page (See instruction on form)
  2. Proposal narrative

Please address the following questions on 1-2 double spaced pages:

  • What is the mission of your group/organization?
    • What is your proposed project or activity? Who will participate?
    • Do you have community involvement? Who are the people responsible for the implementation of the project or activity?
    • Who are the group or individuals who will be served? How will you attract participation?
    • Describe your work plan and the timeline for the grant period.
  • Project Budget (see instructions on form)
  • Work Samples and Description

Provide work samples to illustrate the activities of your group/organization that demonstrate key features of your project (pictures, videos, web links, etc). Provide short information about what we are viewing.

For registered organizations  only:

  • Organizational Budget Form (see instructions on form)
  • Proof of Tax Exempt Status

The application form is different for individuals/unregistered groups and 501 (c) 3 non profit organizations. Please, select the appropriate application PDF form.

Download the PDF form, fill it out and send it to BACES via email at Attach all additional materials as PDF files.