Seattle organizations granted funds for online audience development

The Wallace Foundation gave $7.7 million dollars to Washington state/ Seattle arts organizations; the award is specifically regarding youth, young adults and diverse populations audience outreach. One significant component of the outreach is expanding the online presence and access through technology. The organizations that will be leveraging technology to engage these audiences are:

• On the Boards will receive $750,000 over a four-year period to producing performances online and building audience through community building tools online.

• Pacific Northwest Ballet will receive $750,000 to create a new company website to share content to “reduce practical barriers to participation and broaden participation among young adults”. Streaming video is already a component of their site to promote shows, but this project will increase the quality and encourage participation.

• Seattle Art Museum will use part of their $750,000 grant over four years to build partnerships with other organizations and explore communication options, including social networking.

• And finally, the Seattle Opera received a $750,000 grant over four years to increase accessibility to the Opera through technology.

Seven Seattle organizations are the recipient of the award, I cannot wait to see what these groups come up with (here is hoping it isn't just videos online)!