Best Arts Access & Participation Grants

The LoLA Fund Grants, offered by the Missoula Community Foundation, support artistic projects that promote healing and wellness through creative expression. Grants are available for projects that foster community engagement and positive impact, with a total of $8,000 anticipated for funding 2-3 projects in 2024. Artists and organizations can apply for this opportunity, provided they have not received a grant in the previous cycle. This initiative highlights the transformative power of art in enhancing human spirit.

The TourWest Grants, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, aim to support presenters and organizations in the Western region by providing flexible funding for touring artists. This competitive grant encourages community engagement and outreach, fostering collaboration between artists and local communities. It prioritizes accessibility to the performing arts, especially in underserved areas. Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or local government units and demonstrate a commitment to community needs through their projects.

The MRAC Flexible Support Grant Program aims to enhance arts access for Minnesotans by funding projects that promote arts programming and strengthen organizational capacity. For FY2024, $4,301,763 is allocated, with $3,000,000 designated for organizations led by individuals who identify as BIPOC or LGBTQIA2+. This initiative encourages communities to sustain and grow their arts offerings, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the arts sector.

The Cleveland Foundation's Equity in the Arts Fund supports organizations led by people of color in promoting diverse arts and cultures. Grants between $5,000 and $30,000 are available for non-profits and collectives with fiscal sponsors, focusing on enhancing organizational capacity and sustainability. The fund aims to uplift Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, fostering a vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape in Cuyahoga, Lake, and Geauga Counties.

The Community Arts Grants program, funded by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Arts Board, promotes artistic collaboration in Marathon County. It supports nonprofit organizations in providing quality arts experiences with a public component. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs, aiming to enhance the arts' diversity and quality in the region. Each organization may submit one application annually, fostering community engagement through the arts.

The Tickets for Kids Grant Program, offered by the Tickets For Kids Foundation, aims to support low-income, at-risk children and youth by providing access to ticketed experiences at no cost. Organizations eligible for partnership include nonprofit agencies, schools serving primarily low-income students, and government agencies. The application process typically takes 2-4 weeks, with responses expected within five business days after review. This initiative enriches existing programming through valuable experiences.

The PMRTC Community Betterment Grant Program by Prairie Meadows supports small to medium projects aimed at enhancing community well-being. Grants range from $100 to $99,999 and target various sectors including arts, education, health, and economic development. This initiative aims to uplift Iowans by funding essential services, creating educational opportunities, and improving access to arts for underserved populations. The program reflects Prairie Meadows' commitment to fostering positive change in Central Iowa communities.

The MHS Heritage Partnership Program offers funding to build history-based partnerships across Minnesota. This competitive grant, supported by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, aids eligible applicants, including educational institutions and nonprofits. With grants ranging from $10,000 up to $400,000, the program encourages collaboration without a match requirement, fostering community engagement and preservation of Minnesota's rich cultural resources.

The Bamford Foundation, established in 1990, aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and strengthen communities in Tacoma and the South Puget Sound region. With a focus on operational and program-related grants, the foundation prioritizes collaborations that foster equity, diversity, and access. In 2026, it will concentrate on smaller grants to maximize impact, particularly in basic needs, early learning, expanded opportunities, and access to higher education and job training.

The BECU Foundation's People Helping People Awards honor exceptional nonprofit work in communities served by BECU. Each year, BECU members can nominate organizations for grants up to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be active 501(c)(3) organizations with a direct impact in Idaho, Oregon, South Carolina, or Washington. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and encourages members to recognize local heroes making a difference.

The GCAC Project Support program offers vital funding for arts and cultural initiatives, such as events, festivals, and series. This grant encourages community engagement through performances, exhibitions, and locally-produced film presentations. Projects must be public-facing and actively involve professional artists, ensuring a high-quality artistic experience. Applicants are required to submit a detailed implementation plan to outline how their project will be executed effectively, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape.

The First Financial Foundation, established in 2017, aims to enhance local communities through targeted grants. With a focus on neighborhood development, workforce education, and cultural initiatives, the foundation supports organizations creating affordable housing, enhancing financial literacy, and promoting the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific counties and must align with the foundation's mission. The foundation seeks to foster community growth and diversity while ensuring impactful contributions.

The Washington County Riverboat Association Grant Program offers funding through its Competitive Fund, distributing 75% of donations from the Riverside Casino and Golf Resort. The program prioritizes community development, economic growth, education, arts, and human needs, aiming to enhance livability and support innovative projects. Eligible applicants include governmental and charitable organizations, while ineligible entities include those benefiting individuals or engaging in political activities. The foundation encourages leveraging additional funding sources for project completion.

The Grand Forks Community Opportunity Grant Program aims to enhance community life through projects in arts, culture, environmental sustainability, and human rights. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities serving Grand Forks, Walsh, or Polk County. Projects must start after October 1, 2024, and conclude by September 30, 2025. Preference may be given to new initiatives and applicants, fostering innovation and community engagement.

FNBO's Community Sponsorships provide vital financial support to nonprofit organizations and community events that enhance the well-being of our communities. By focusing on affordable housing, entrepreneurship, education, environmental sustainability, access to arts and culture, community cohesion, and health, FNBO aims to create impactful partnerships. Monthly reviews of sponsorship requests ensure timely decision-making, emphasizing FNBO's commitment to fostering community development and empowering historically underrepresented populations.

The Onion Foundation's Arts Education and Public Engagement Grants support organizations with budgets over $50,000 in Maine. The program prioritizes access to arts education, public engagement, and capacity building for arts organizations. Grants can be general operating or project-based, with amounts reaching up to $20,000 annually. Emphasizing equity and diversity, applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the foundation's strategic goals to foster creativity and cultural sharing within Maine's communities.

The SACF Community Impact Grants aim to support programs focused on health for youth under 18 and senior citizens in Cheboygan County and Mackinaw City. Preference is given to initiatives addressing substance abuse, mental health, healthcare access, early childhood development, and environmental stewardship. Non-profit organizations that meet eligibility criteria can apply for funding for future projects, with a focus on innovative proposals that demonstrate collaborative funding support.

The Arts Idaho Entry Track Grant, offered by the Idaho Commission on the Arts, supports public arts programs by nonprofit organizations and local governments in Idaho. This grant aims to enhance artistic excellence, broaden community access, and promote diversity in the arts. Eligible entities must have a minimum three-year program history and demonstrate a commitment to compensating professional artists. Projects that enhance community engagement and reflect Idaho’s diverse culture are prioritized. Grant recipients may later apply for additional funding.

The Arts ADA Accessibility Reimbursement Grants, offered by the Oregon Arts Commission, aim to enhance accessibility in arts organizations for individuals of all abilities. This program supports funding for specific accessibility-related expenses and ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Organizations must operate as nonprofits and prioritize arts programming as their main mission. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the arts community.

The Arts Build Communities Grants, offered by the Oregon Arts Commission, aim to enhance arts engagement in communities, particularly for underserved populations. This program supports innovative projects that foster partnerships, improve access, and integrate arts with community goals. Emphasizing flexibility in project implementation during challenges such as COVID-19, it welcomes diverse initiatives that may include new program development and cultural tourism, thus promoting local capacity building and artistic involvement.

The Oregon Arts Commission's Sustaining Arts Program - Group B provides vital operating support grants to arts organizations in Oregon with annual expenses over $150,000. These grants, ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, aim to sustain high-quality arts programming and outreach services. The funding amounts are determined based on the organization's fiscal size, past awards, and the available program budget, ensuring a fair distribution of resources to enhance community engagement in the arts.

The Oregon Arts Commission's Sustaining Arts Program - Group A provides operating support grants to arts organizations with annual operating expenses under $150,000. Grants range from $1,000 to $3,000, aimed at enhancing community arts programming and outreach. This initiative ensures that small organizations can maintain high-quality artistic services while fostering local culture and creativity. Funding is contingent on the number of eligible applications and available budget, promoting equity in arts funding.

The 4Culture: Open 4Culture Grants provide funding up to $2,500 for projects in Arts, Heritage, and Preservation within King County. This initiative aims to support underserved communities and encourage public benefit through compelling events. Eligible applicants include individuals, groups, and small businesses new to 4Culture. The grant prioritizes equity and the advancement of cultural access. Applications are accepted for projects occurring between January 1 and December 31, 2026, with deadlines two months prior to the event.

The ArtsEverywhere Grants, funded by the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, aim to enrich local arts and culture through substantial support for innovative projects. With a focus on capacity building, the initiative encourages organizations to enhance their effectiveness and community engagement. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for various programs, fostering collaboration and sustainability. By investing in local talent and artistic quality, the program seeks to inspire community pride and ensure lasting contributions to the cultural landscape.

The CFMC Small Grants program, offered by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, supports emerging projects and small organizations focused on specific populations or areas. Applications are reviewed in three cycles each year: February, June, and October. This streamlined program aims to address critical community needs while fostering healthy, safe, and vibrant communities across Monterey County.

The Bonner County Fund for Arts Enhancement provides funding to enhance artistic programs in Bonner County. It supports initiatives that focus on education, creativity, and community engagement, encouraging projects that demonstrate the value of the arts in promoting critical thinking and economic vitality. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations, public educational institutions, and government entities. The fund prioritizes collaborative projects with educational components and community support, aiming to enrich the cultural landscape of Bonner County.

The F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation Fund, managed by the Idaho Community Foundation, supports arts initiatives in southeastern Idaho. Founded by Beverly Bistline, the fund honors her commitment to the arts and aims to enhance community engagement through educational programs and performances. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, focusing on both public arts education and opportunities for local artists, thus fostering a vibrant cultural landscape in Bannock, Bingham, Bear Lake, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power counties.