Purpose: The Small Business Award recognizes the contributions of small businesses that have devoted time, resources, and/or creative partnerships to supporting a facet of the northeast Ohio arts community. Our intention is to thank them for stepping out on a limb, for thinking of innovative ways to support arts and culture, and to encourage other partnerships that help bring these facets together to increase both profit and awareness for both the arts and business entity. 4 finalists and one top winner will be recognized.

Awards: The top winner will be given a commissioned piece of artwork, a free year of COSE membership, and an exhibit or marketing opportunity in the new Positively Cleveland Visitors’ Center on Public Square. Finalists will be recognized with smaller pieces of artwork.

Nomination/application process: A public call for nominations will be announced in January 2008. The COSE membership and the arts and culture community will be asked to make nominations of small businesses. Nominees will be asked to fill out a questionnaire and submit supporting materials. Self applications are also welcome. The deadline for submissions in March 1, 2008

Eligibility: Any small business located in northeast Ohio who has demonstrated an understanding of the needs of the local arts community through their positive contributions to this sector.

Criteria:

• Small business (defined as under 100 employees)
• Primary function of the organization is not related to fine or performing arts
• Activity with the arts must have started or occurred between January 2005 and January 2007
• Acceptable partnership or support of an arts entity may include those that resulted in profit for the business, artists, or both

Eligible activities could be, but are not limited to, the following:

• Partnership – an innovative partnership that generated profit for either the arts or business entity, or both
• Contributions of time and resources - Time and expertise contributed to the arts entity in the form of legal, accounting, technical, or business planning assistance, advocacy activities, or contributions of financial support.