Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I expect as a new client?
For every new client, we can arrange a 1-hour FREE consultation and provide you with a quote estimate based on the conversation. Under the discretion of DUO staff, a contract agreement is drafted based on the initial discussion if the project(s) is accepted. Once the contract is approved and signed by the client, our work begins and time is tracked.

Please Note: As of September 1, 2023 DUO’s Rates have changed. See our new pricing structure HERE. 

Do I get charged if I already get my one-hour free consultation from DUO?
Please note our free one-hour consultation can only happen once with anyone from the DUO team. We’re happy to discuss your dance project needs and provide you with recommendations to grow your business but, after that, all rates + HST will be charged.

What payments are accepted?
We only accept payments via. cheque and e-transfers. Please write your cheques to “Dance Umbrella of Ontario” and mailed to our address at 410 Jarvis Street, 2nd floor, Toronto, ON M4Y 2G6 or e-transfer to accounting@danceumbrella.net.

Do you help with personal tax returns?
Although we provide a variety of financial services to dance organizations, performing arts organizations, and independent dance artists, we do not handle personal tax return filings. For more information on what we offer, click here.

When is it too late for DUO to accept a project?
Please see our pricing structure HERE for details on our timelines with projects. We are happy to discuss timelines with you, so feel free to reach out regardless of timeline!

How long do I need to come for you for a grant review? 
The minimum is 5 business days per grant application. DUO’s grant review service is a process of going back and forth with you until you feel the grant is ready. If you are thinking about working with us on a show that uses multiple funders we suggest working with us between 8 months to 1 year in advance so we can plan out time to apply for your grants and reapply if necessary.

Grants are competitive and it can take more than one round to fund any aspect of your project. Please note if you are new to applying for grants you must set up accounts in the online funder account (e.g. Toronto Arts Council, Ontario Arts Council, Canadian Heritage, Ontario Trillium, etc.) grant portals and have confirmation before coming to DUO for grant review.

What do you mean by DUO is a “shared resource business model”? 
Managing many client projects over the course annually means we work with you to plan and schedule your needs in advance. This allows us to manage our human resources to ensure we are delivering the highest quality services possible. We work in advance so we can fit your timeline into the rest of the client work we are managing. Please make sure to come with us ahead of time with your project(s) you want our support with. 

Do you help with fundraising & sponsorship?
DUO does not offer fundraising and development services. In other words, our services do not cover fundraising or sponsorship solicitation. However, we can help create packages, draft letters, prepare marketing assets in consultation with you to present to corporations, foundations, and private investors.

What are the types of DUO contracts?  
We can work on an hourly basis with no set amount, or a contractual basis based on the set budget. Please speak with a DUO staff representative if you have any further questions about the difference. 

Can I cancel mid-contract?
It depends on what contract you signed. For instance, if you are on an hourly contract for our services, you can cancel at any time. Contracts with a specified set budget amount will need to be completed and cannot be opted-out. This includes all management services, hot desk, and mailbox rentals. To avoid any disturbances, clients can opt for shorter contract periods or go on hourly in consultation with DUO staff. Contact communications@danceumbrella.net if you would like further assistance.

Does DUO have any say in my artistic decisions or the direction of my organization?  
Dance Umbrella of Ontario will never lead your artistic vision. However, we do consult and collaborate with you on your direction of your organization. As a shared resource we cannot be your full-time General Manager. All of our services works best when we collaborate.

What is a dance service organization?
Support service or service organizations are here to support the various aspects of your arts career and business. Dance Umbrella of Ontario is only one of many dance service organizations that operate in Canada. For instance, the Canadian Dance Assembly, CADA/East, CADA-West, Dance Ontario, and the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) are all service organizations, each with a different mandate. 

Have a question that is not covered on the Frequently Asked Questions page?
Contact us directly at communications@danceumbrella.net or call us at 416-504-6429.