The Santo Foundation's original mission set out to assist the careers of emerging artists. It was clear that most granting agencies that gave money to artists went first to organizations and designated funds, who then trickled financial awards down to artists with extensive follow-up requirements. The concept of streamlining grants/stipends directly to artist was unprecedented. Now in it's 10th year, Santo Foundation Individual Artist Awards (SFIAA) looks to fund $20,000 in awards across 8 artists at up to $5,000 each.