The photography industry is competitive and at times hard to navigate, but with help from non-profits like Crusade for Art, now is most certainly an exciting time to be a photographer. Crusade for Art is all about connecting artist with collectors and buyers. Founded by gallerist Jennifer Schwartz, the organization helps to facilitate networks and introduce new audience to the work of emerging photographers.

Now in its second year, the Crusade Engagement Grant awards $10,000 to the photographer or photographers with the most innovative and creative idea for a program aimed at building and widening photography audiences. Pittsburgh-based photographer Matthew Conboy earned last year’s grant with Start With Art, a program that gave signed prints to newborn babies born in local hospitals. Other noteworthy concepts ranged from photography billboards to school-based photography collections.

If you have a great idea for increasing the demand for photography, apply to the Crusade Engagement Grant by submitting a description of your concept. A selection committee composed of three leading professionals, including Feature Shoot Founder and Editor-in-Chief Alison Zavos, will review applications based on several criteria, including creativity, originality, and probability for success.

The deadline for submissions is April 17. Apply today!