AMERICUS — The Huss Foundation announces the beginning of its inaugural “kickstART” contest for local artists, craftspeople, performers and writers. The contest offers a traditional $1000 cash award to the winner as well as a more innovative prize of entrepreneurial and business knowledge and assistance to the chosen artist.
The contest seeks to identify and aid local creative people who wish to build a business or otherwise sustain themselves with their artwork, products or performance. While the Americus and Sumter County community is rich with talent, local artisans often struggle to build a base of operation within the economy. The Huss Foundation believes it is crucial to assist in making artistic expression self-sustainable in the community and economy. A vibrant artistic and creative community contributes to everyone’s quality of life, provides a destination for tourism, helps revitalize downtown and improves the local economy.
The kickstART contest is open to anyone who considers themselves an artist or creator. Entrants must submit a piece of their work along with a short essay on how they intend to use the prize money, what help they need to grow within our community and any business or other plans they have for the future. Submissions and requests for more information can be made by contacting Derek Huss at dhuss99@gmail.com. The deadline for submission is Feb. 15 and a winner will be announced March 1.
This contest is organized and operated solely by The Huss Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) private foundation.  he primary mission of The Huss Foundation is to promote the knowledge, art and happiness of the Americus and greater Sumter County community.