Financial Resources
Several resources that are relevant specifically for artists and arts organizations that are hurting during this time of cancelled performances and gatherings, and I wanted to make you aware of them.
 

1. Artist Relief is offering grants of $5K for artists and creative workers who are experiencing economic distress on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are due by April 23 (11:59pm EST). See: https://www.artistrelief.org/about
 
2. Paycheck Protection Program, which is also available to gig workers, 1099 contract employees, and self-employed people. This article offers a good overview, plus information about where to apply: https://bench.co/blog/operations/paycheck-protection-program-self-employed/ 
 
3. The CARES Fund from the National Endowment for the Arts. These are only available as operating support to arts organizations who have received NEA money in the last 4 years. The first part of the application is due April 22. Find out more here: https://www.arts.gov/grants-organizations/CARES/grant-program-description  
 
Surveys
A number of organizations are collecting data on how the pandemic is affecting artists. If you have time, please make sure traditional artists are included in their data! These organizations need information to know how to best help artists and advocate for their needs.
 
1. Americans for the Arts, Survey for Individual Artists: https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5532991/6539d78e3593
 
2. Americans for the Arts, Survey for Organizations: https://surveys.americansforthearts.org/s3/CoronavirusImpactSurvey
 
3. Connecticut DECD Survey for organizations/businesses: https://www.research.net/r/COVID19BizSurvey
 
4. Connecticut Regional Surveys, which include:
 
Northwest Connecticut Arts Council
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfc_nLCYTmioidG6kDNGiIa6zcZyF8KhWV8rcu0qkCAh0xKSA/viewform (For individual artists, musicians, and creative service employees only)
 
Southeastern Connecticut Cultural Coalition