Excursion Grant

Purpose

The Excursion Program provides matching funds to South Dakota organizations to assist in transportation costs for taking K-12 students and persons with disabilities to programs co-sponsored by the South Dakota Arts Council in another town.

Funds are limited to the transportation of:

• K-12 students
• Persons with disabilities

Nonprofit organizations designated as federally tax-exempt under the IRS Section 501(c)(3), units of government, public and private K-12 schools, or nonprofit education institutions. Organizations not meeting this requirement may apply under the auspices of a qualifying organization, which then becomes responsible for all fiscal and contractual agreements.

Each Excursion must include a minimum of eight K-12 students and/or persons with disabilities, traveling to an event outside their home town. [The former mileage requirement has been eliminated.] If private cars are used, it is expected that at least four people, including a chaperone, will be transported in each. In special cases involving the transportation of persons with disabilities or special needs students, excursion funds may be used even if the event is in the same town. Please contact the Arts Council office to determine if your situation meets that exception.

All materials must be submitted at least 15 days prior to the beginning date of the proposed activity.

Up to 50% of the total amount of cash transportation cost will be paid by the Council. No more than $500 may be awarded to an organization within a fiscal year.

If private vehicles are used for the Excursion, transportation cost should be computed using the state rate of 51¢ per mile, per vehicle. If an alternative mode of transportation is used (i.e. charter bus, rental van, etc.), a copy of the rental agreement which includes the transportation cost, must be submitted with this application.

One signed copy of the application must be submitted. In completing the application form, refer to the Grant Application Codes.

Applications are reviewed by staff with consideration given to the following:

• Complete application form.
• Meeting all guidelines.
• Traveling to a program sponsored by a South Dakota Arts Council funded organization or a program receiving South Dakota Arts Council support.

Apply online [application linked here]. Reach out to staff with any questions [staff list linked here].

Evaluation

Evaluations are due 30 days after the Excursion. Information required on the Evaluation Form includes description and comments on the activity, a rating (with explanation) of program attended, actual number of individuals benefiting, and financial report. 

If an evaluation is not received in the Council office 30 days after the Excursion, funds will no longer be available.

Back to grants listing