Here and Ready is thrilled to announce the creation and launch of the Mallory-Artese Grant for Black Actress Excellence, named to honor American activist Tamika D. Mallory and American actress, dancer and Here and Ready member Donielle Artese, two impact-driven creatives working toward the collective growth of this community in society and entertainment. 

Here and Ready is a nationwide networking collective and resource group that fosters a spirit of community over competition. Started in 2019 by Brie Eley, this private community is a supportive hub for more than 1,300 members nationwide that also offers enrichment seminars and workshops with industry professionals. The Mallory-Artese Grant for Black Actress Excellence will further their efforts to build and support Black actresses in an exciting and tangible way. 

The ideal candidate is a Black self-identifying actress (inclusive of Black women, Black multiracial women, Black trans and nonbinary people) who has demonstrated a commitment to their craft, resilience in the pursuit of that craft and a focus on achieving their artistic goals. The committee will prioritize applicants who have a passion for civic engagement and a clear plan on how this grant would be applied to that journey.

The Mallory-Artese Grant for Black Actress Excellence will award a $500 (USD) unrestricted grant to four recipients. In addition, Here and Ready will provide 1-year of membership at the Backstage Pass level, a private Zoom session with an industry guest and recognition on all Here and Ready platforms.

Applications for the inaugural grant cycle are now open and will be accepted through March 31, 2023. There is no purchase necessary or other cost to apply. 

Key Details:

• Eligibility: Applicants must be performers who self-identify as Black actresses. The grant is open to Black women, Black multiracial women, Black trans and nonbinary people. At this time, we are only able to extend this opportunity to applicants in the United States, the District of Colombia or Puerto Rico eighteen (18) years of age or older.
• Full Grant Package Value: $1,500 (USD) Includes the $500 unrestricted grant, 1-year Here and Ready membership at the Backstage Pass level, and a private Zoom session with an industry guest.
• Application open: Wednesday, March 8, 2022
• Application deadline: Friday, March 31, 2023 by 4:00 PM PT
• Ready to apply, head to our SUBMISSION PAGE

If you have additional questions, please connect at hello@hereandready.co.

• Q: I don’t identify as Black or a Black actress. Can I still apply?
  • A: No. We celebrate your enthuisasm, but this program is specifically for performers within identify
• Q: I’m not a US citizen. Can I still apply?
  • A: At this time, the Mallory-Artese Grant for Black Actress Excellence is only able to provide financial support to US citizens.
• Q: How will I be notified if selected?
  • A: EVERYONE will be notified via email after the selection process has concluded. Recipients will also be announced online.
• Q: Do I have to be a current member of Here and Ready to apply?
  • A: No you do not. This grant is open to members and non-members.
  • PLEASE NOTE: If you qualify for this grant, you also qualify for a membership in Here and Ready, should you choose to join. There is no cost to join or activate at our streamlined membership level and subscription membership start at $5/month.

Additional Questions? Email the Here and Ready team at hello@hereandready.co