American Dance Movement

American Dance Movement

OVERVIEW: American Dance Movement supports dance education programs that benefit students from low-income families.

IP TAKE: This funder is approachable, but it has eligibility restrictions. Grant seekers should review those criteria closely before applying for a grant.

PROFILE: Founded in 2009, American Dance Movement, formerly the Dizzy Feet Foundation, was created by producer Nigel Lythgoe and director Adam Shankman to support dance education and increase appreciation for dance. It seeks to “inspire a new generation of dance enthusiasts by increasing access to dance education in underserved communities, informing the public on the many benefits of dance, and by working with organizations, partners and influencers across the country.” The foundation funds both grants to community organizations and scholarships to students studying dance at accredited or nationally recognized organizations.

Grants of up to $20,000 support eligible nonprofits serving at least 300 students per year, of which 80 percent must be low-income students and 25 percent must be boys. Grant seekers should go over the foundation’s selection criteria to ensure eligibility. Past grantees can be found here and past scholarship recipients are here.

Scholarships of up to $10,000 per student support “talented students studying at accredited dance schools, studios, universities, and institutions.” Recipients must be an American citizen and at least 15 years old to be eligible, and nominating institutions should be able to demonstrate the student’s “financial need.” American Dance Movement also funds a Gene Kelly Legacy Scholarship. Recipients must be at least 18 years old and “must demonstrate an interest in and an aptitude for choreography and interdisciplinary dance expression and must embody not only the physical, athletic style represented by Gene Kelly but also demonstrate potential for the joy, creativity, and innovation for which he is celebrated.”

American Dance Movement accepts unsolicited applications in June. Exact deadlines are subject to change. Check the foundation website for updates.

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