| | 🤝 We’re looking for creative approaches to strengthening local democracy
Springboard invites artists and culture bearers in West Central Minnesota to apply for Artists Respond: Roots of Democracy, a program that will support artists in leading creative community projects that help people participate in civic life, build connection across differences, and strengthen local communities.
This call is open to artists of all disciplines that are based in West Central Minnesota (Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, Wilkin, and the White Earth Nation). Selected artists will receive $2,000 to lead a small community-based project between September 2026 and March 2027. |
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| | “Democracy begins with belonging. Through storytelling, gathering, music, art, and cultural traditions, artists help people feel seen, heard, and connected to one another—building the relationships that are the foundation of a strong democracy.” - Michele Anderson, Rural Director, Springboard for the Arts |
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Funding for Artists Respond: Roots of Democracy was provided in part by West Central Initiative. |
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| 📊 We’re hiring a Financial Specialist!
The Financial Specialist will support Springboard’s financial health and operational effectiveness by leading day-to-day bookkeeping functions, administering Springboard’s Incubator program (fiscal sponsorship), and managing contract workflows across programs.
This is a full-time position ($62,000 annually) based in Saint Paul, MN. Interested, or know someone who might be a good fit? Apply by 6pm Central Time on Friday, July 31. |
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| In-person event Creative Community Coffee Club Friday, July 17 10:00am-12:00pm Central Time 201 West Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
Join Springboard for the Arts in downtown Fergus Falls for coffee and casual coworking. Bring your busy work, a craft project, or just yourself, and enjoy coffee, snacks, and good company with fellow local creatives. |
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| In-person workshop Website Study Hall for Artists Friday, August 14 1:00-4:00pm Central Time 262 University Ave W, Saint Paul, MN 55103
This study hall with Anniessa Antar at Springboard’s Vickie Benson Resource Lab in Saint Paul offers artists dedicated time and hands-on support to build or improve their websites, with an emphasis on the Squarespace platform. |
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| | Artist-led Ready Go Activities
Springboard’s Ready Go program is home to over 20 artist-led mobile activities, from on-the go table tennis to a crayon recycling center. Hire one of these artist-led activities to bring creativity and interaction to your next community event! |
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| | Ready Go workshops
Ready Go Workshops is a growing roster of artists bringing innovative and engaging activities to communities to inspire connection, creativity, and joy. From writing snail mail to starting your own podcast, this set of artist-led workshops are imagining new ways to bring people together all throughout the year! |
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| | Upcoming Event with the WOW Mobile Metal Lab & Show
Ready Go artist Sara Hanson of the WOW Mobile Metal Lab & Show will be at Northeast Park Fest in Minneapolis on Monday, July 20 from 6-8:30pm! Cast your own metal medallions with Sara while learning about the statewide movement for guaranteed income in Minnesota. |
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Springboard’s Saint Paul office will be closed to the public on Wednesday, July 29. Staff will be working remotely and available during regular business hours. |
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Saint Paul262 University Ave W Saint Paul, MN 55103 |
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Fergus Falls201 West Lincoln Ave Fergus Falls, MN 56537 |
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Your support empowers artists and strengthens communities. Donate today and help us power connection, creativity, and vibrant local economies. |
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