Michigan: Expanding Access to Applicant Learning

The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) introduced two new aspects to its grant panel process to maximize the opportunity of the panel as a learning experience for its clients. The first change was the inclusion of a brief question and answer period for applicants attending the meeting. This dialogue between constituents and panelists provided a beneficial occasion for feedback and increased applicants’ motivation to attend. Another change was the introduction of distance learning technology. The geography of Michigan presents challenges for Upper Peninsula clients who often must travel great distances to attend a panel in Lansing. In partnership with two northern Michigan universities, MCACA’s Upper Peninsula applicants now have the convenient option to participate in the question and answer portion of the panel by using distance learning technology. As a result of the changes, the in-person and “virtual” attendance of grant panel meetings climbed from 10% to 62% in one year. Future plans for expanding the panel experience include a networking room and professional development opportunities for applicants. For more information, contact MCACA Executive Director John Bracey.