This report distills lessons from the early implementation of Exploring Engagement Fund projects. The first phase of the Fund featured five rounds of grantmaking. It is based on information from three of these rounds; it covers the first year in a series of two-year grants. It is drawn from analysis of grantee reports and interviews, and offers seven lessons as well as practical tips that can benefit arts organizations working to engage new and diverse participants. Early results demonstrate that grantee strategies have encouraged new participants to experience, learn about, and develop interest in the arts. Grantee organizations are testing their approaches to engagement of participants from communities of color and low-income groups--two populations of particular interest to the foundation. Preliminary data suggests that their strategies, in aggregate, are successful. This new grantmaking is informed by lessons included in this report. [Written in partnership with Diane Espaldon.]