INTERVIEW ON THE PRICE OF BUSINESS SHOW, MEDIA PARTNER OF THIS SITE.
Recently Kevin Price, Host of the nationally syndicated Price of Business Show, welcomed Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes to provide another commentary in a series.
The Benjamin “BENCASSO” Barnes Commentaries
Call me Bencasso, I’m the host of The Price of Business Podcast’s Coaches Corner. Today, I’m here to share with you 5 ways to fund your big arts projects. If you’re a painter, musician, or dancer, these tips will help bring your artistic vision to life. Get ready, think outside the box. Make dreams a reality. Stay inspired, and most importantly, stay tuned for valuable insights from The Price of Business Podcast.
Let’s kick this off with #1: Crowdfunding! If you’ve ever begged Dad for gas money, you’re already familiar with the concept! Crowdfunding is like passing the hat. Instead of your dad, it’s the whole internet chipping in. Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Patreon let your fans, friends, support your project. The best part? You can offer cool rewards—like signed posters, VIP tickets, or, I don’t know, a personalized song about their pet hamster! Remember, a successful crowdfunding campaign is about the hustle—so put on your marketing hat!
Next up, #2: Grants. Now, I know what you’re thinking—“Grants? Isn’t that what scientists get for inventing the next big thing?” Well, yes…but also, no! There are tons of grants out there specifically for artists and musicians. Think of it as winning the lottery, but you don’t need to pick numbers—just write killer proposals about your project. The best part? You don’t have to pay it back! So get to Googling those arts organizations, foundations, and maybe even the government! And if you’re worried about the competition, just remember—even Picasso had to start somewhere!
Moving on to #3: Sponsorships and Partnerships. Now, this one’s like dating, but for money—find a brand, business, or philanthropist who shares your vibe, and swipe right! Maybe you’re an eco-conscious painter, and there’s a local company selling bamboo toothbrushes that would love to sponsor your next gallery show. Or maybe there’s a coffee shop that would happily trade lattes for live music. The key here is to find a partnership that feels right—because nothing kills creativity like having to paint with logos all over your canvas.
#4: Loans and Credit Lines. I know—loans might sound as exciting as watching paint dry, but hear me out! Loans can give you that immediate boost to get your project off the ground. Just imagine—your band could record that debut album now instead of “sometime in the distant future when we’re all old and gray.” Just remember to crunch those numbers and make sure you can pay it back—because debt collectors don’t accept payment in “exposure” or free concert tickets!
And last but not least, #5: Pre-Sales and Subscription Models. This one’s like giving your fans a sneak peek while getting paid upfront. You can sell pre-orders of your album, or even set up a subscription where fans get exclusive content—like behind-the-scenes videos, early access to new songs, or even a monthly Zoom hangout. It’s like having a fan club, but cooler—and with more cash in your pocket! Remember to deliver on your promises—because nothing turns off a fan faster than a missing CD or a no-show on that Zoom call!
There you have it—five ways to fund your next big arts project without losing your mind, your savings, or your artistic soul. Remember,the only limits are the ones you set for yourself—so go out there, be resourceful, and make some magic happen!
Thanks for tuning in to “The Coaches Corner” on The Price of Business! Call me Bencasso, and until next time,keep dreaming, and keep finding clever ways to make those dreams a reality!
Remember, creativity knows no bounds when it comes to funding art. Seize the moment, be innovative! Make that first step to turning a passion into a masterpiece. Tune in to The Price of Business Podcast for more entrepreneurial tips that fuel success. Make it so!
And don’t forget to like, subscribe, sharre and drop a few coins into the digital hat if you liked what you heard. I practice what I preach here!
Benjamin “Bencasso” Barnes is a multi-talented entrepreneur, artist, and business strategist known for his innovative approach to blending creativity with entrepreneurship. As the host of “The Price of Business Podcast,” Bencasso inspires artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs to turn their passions into successful ventures, all while navigating the financial challenges of the creative world.
Bencasso’s expertise is backed by impressive credentials, including a 2023 $20,000 grant from the San Francisco Arts Commission, which recognized his outstanding contributions to the arts. In 2022 and 2024 he served as panelist on the California Arts Council’s Impact Grant jury, lending his expertise to evaluate and support impactful arts initiatives.
With Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from the prestigious San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and a Multiple Subjects Teaching Credentail from SF State, Bencasso brings a deep understanding of the artistic process to his work as a grantwriting consultant. His knowledge and experience make him a sought-after speaker, frequently invited to share his insights at conferences and events.
Known for his witty, down-to-earth style, Bencasso combines practical business advice with creative inspiration, encouraging others to find resourceful solutions to funding challenges. His message is clear: with determination, innovation, and the right mindset, anyone can turn their artistic vision into a thriving reality.
Ben is the Executive Director of Culture Scholar Corporation 501(c)(3) arts and education organization and owns Bencasso LLC and its many side businesses.
Music by Benjamin the Dog Year of the Dog electronic music and beats available on all streaming platforms and major webstores Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/50oI4RBwG5wGPx94bwKPrB?si=O4AaHskJRw-5K_10Gz2fSQ Apple Music https://music.apple.com/us/album/year-of-the-dog/1608707576
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