Writing Sample: Funding Proposal

Hue Magazine

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In 2008, positive images of women of color continue to be illusive in the media. Hue Magazine is a new publication that will respond to this imbalance in the representation of thousands of minority women. We are requesting $500,000 in start-up capital from the New York Angels to launch the publication.

Hue will address the concerns of lower to middle income minority women seeking their own images and information about money, family, education, fashion and beauty that fits within the parameters of their lifestyles. The magazine’s office is located in New York City and will be run by the founder, three equity partners, and supporting staff. The magazine is in early production. We are currently recruiting freelance writers and “real women” models for the January 2009 launch.

We hope to meet the following objectives with this publication:

a. To present positive images of women of color.
b. To provide women of color resources on issues that directly impact their lives.
c. To inform women of color about domestic and global issues that affect their communities.

The funds requested will augment previously secured funds for the development, production, and national distribution of the magazine. Future funding has been committed by long-term investment partners. Hue Magazine is also in the process of negotiating reoccurring advertising contracts with major corporations and retailers, which will sustain our product past the projected five year start-up period.


STATEMENT OF NEED

Hue Magazine will celebrate women of color by using real women as models and focusing on the issues that directly affect this demographic including childcare, education, employment, relationships, fashion and beauty, and money. We request financing in the amount of $500,000 to cover expenses associated with start-up, design and production, circulation and distribution.

Historically, women of color (including African American, Hispanic and Asian American, and other groups) have been absent from or misrepresented in print magazines. The standard of beauty offered to women’s magazine readers does not often focus on the attributes of women of color. With 83 percent of the adult African American population and 75 percent of the adult Hispanic population representing magazine readers, presenting images of white runway models as the example of womanhood to strive for is not realistic, nor desirable to the minority community. In addition, many of the women’s magazines on newsstands cater to the higher income members of our population. And even when minority women are showcased, such as in Essence, Latina, and East West magazines, celebrities and not the common woman are usually featured. Hue Magazine will educate and inform women of color about what is happening in their own communities and in the world, while also celebrating the beauty of women that comes in multiple shades.

Read the entire roposal: Hue Magazine