Announcing 

The Bowen Fund for Growth

A microgrant initiative to support new Dance for Parkinson's programs around the world

Dance for PD is proud to announce the launch of the Bowen Fund for Growth, which will offer microgrants of up to $2,000 USD to jumpstart Dance for Parkinson's programs in new communities or to launch new programs in communities where Dance for PD is already present but is not engaging diverse constituents. 

The Fund for Growth is designed to provide critical start-up funds that allow teaching artists and organizations to offer a pilot class series, create marketing materials, and cover basic administrative costs.

Why a Fund for Growth?

Dance for PD’s mission is to ensure that people living with Parkinson’s and their families around the world have reliable access to high quality and inclusive dance experiences based on our research-backed model no matter where they live. Over the past 23 years, the program has relied on collaborative partnerships to launch and sustain classes in more than 400 communities. However, to date, these partnerships have not had reliable sources of ‘seed funding’ to initiate new programs. 

The Bowen Fund for Growth aims to fill this void by providing access to a source of funds through a relatively quick turn-around process. This funding can enable new programs to launch and establish palpable community interest, which can then be leveraged to seek financial support through local grants or individuals.

Who can apply?

Any Dance for PD-trained teacher in the world is eligible to apply for a Bowen microgrant through a streamlined application process that opens today (October 1). Teachers must have completed both the prerequisite online course and a Dance for PD training workshop to apply. Applicants must be Dance for PD members in good standing. In the application, candidates will need to spell out the exact activities for which they plan to use the funds. They must include such details as a timetable, budget, a list of partners, and benchmarks for success. Additional terms and requirements, as well as a preview of all application questions, can be viewed on the Bowen Fund for Growth webpage linked below.

Applications are accepted and reviewed on a quarterly basis. For consideration in the January 2025 funding distribution, applications must be received by November 30, 2024. Future deadlines are listed on the Fund for Growth information page.

We're excited about what we feel is a meaningful and extraordinary opportunity to engage more people living with Parkinson's and support the teaching artists and organizations who have committed to this work. We extend our deepest thanks to Lucy Bowen McCauley and the community of donors who have come together to support this initiative through their own generosity, commitment, and passion.