Grace Carter Writing Services

Grant Writing & Strategic Communications

Portfolio

Highlights

ArtsForward Initiative

Led grant management and operations for a multi-year, multi-partner funding initiative.

  • Managed grants across three platforms (Foundant, WizeHive, OpenWater)
  • Supported fundraising of a $1M match from Knight Foundation, resulting in $2M of total funding for arts and culture projects in Summit County
  • Oversaw distribution of over $1.4M to 100+ grantees

National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Grants

Supported development and execution of multiple federally funded grants.

  • Worked on 3 NEA-funded projects
  • Contributed to proposal development, reporting, and compliance
  • Ensured alignment with federal grant requirements and timelines

SEEN Photography Project

Project managed a countywide creative initiative from funding to execution.

  • Secured and distributed $12,625 to local photographers
  • Managed 7 photographers across 17 shoots in 14 locations
  • Oversaw production of 1,300+ visual assets

Summit Artspace — Communications Growth

Led communications strategy and systems that significantly expanded audience engagement.

  • Grew email list by 50%
  • Achieved 50% average open rate
  • Redesigned WordPress website to improve user experience and conversions

CAN Journal — Editorial Work

Contributed to a regional arts publication through print and digital writing.

  • Wrote numerous articles across print and online platforms
  • Produced feature-length stories and editorial content
  • Authored a magazine cover story

Professional Experience

Associate Director of Community Impact, ArtsNow (2024 – 2025)

Systems Administrator, ArtsNow (2023 – 2024)

River in the City Fellowship, ArtsNow (2022)

Community Engagement Coordinator, Summit Artspace (2021 – 2022)

Education

M.A. in Arts Administration, The University of Akron (2023)

B.A. in Art History, Minor in Pre-Law, Kent State University (2021)

Grant Review & Sector Engagement

  • Grant Professionals Association Member
  • Fundraising Committee Member, Millennial Theatre Project (2025)
  • Guest Juror, ArtsinStark ArtsImpact Grant Review Committee (2025)
  • Guest Juror, Greater Columbus Arts Council Project Grant Review Committee (2025)
  • Conference Panelist, Akron Black Artist Guild Creative Exchange (2025)
  • Guest Juror, Akron Soul Train Artist Residency Selection Committee (2024)
  • Rising Arts Leader Award, Summit Artspace (2024)

Published Work