Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Your Grant Operating System Has Leveled Up.
Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Arts Grants for Nonprofits

Discover arts funding for nonprofit projects, education, performance programs, cultural preservation, and community engagement.

2,000+

Available grants

$51.9M

Total funding

$6.5K

Median grant

2,000+ grants
$51.9M total
$6.5K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

2,273 Results based on applied filters

First Horizon Foundation Grant (Chattanooga and Cleveland, TN)

First Horizon Foundation
Private
Bradley County, Tennessee, Hamilton County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount

First Horizon Foundation Grant 

Through the First Horizon Foundation we are constantly investing in organizations across our footprint that do important work every day to make the places we serve better and stronger.

Contributions from the Foundation include the following areas:

  • Arts and Culture
  • Education & Leadership
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Financial Literacy
  • Health & Human Services

Our contributions are targeted to strengthen these pillars of the communities we serve:

  • Improving the well-being of our communities
  • Investing in the financial future
  • Educating and developing the next generation of leaders
  • Promoting excellence and enrichment in the arts
  • A more sustainable tomorrow and future
Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine +3 more

First Horizon Foundation Grant (Bristol, Johnson City, Kingsport, Sullivan County, and Washington County)

First Horizon Foundation
Private
Greene County, Tennessee, Hamblen County, Tennessee +3 more
Unspecified amount

First Horizon Foundation Grant 

Through the First Horizon Foundation we are constantly investing in organizations across our footprint that do important work every day to make the places we serve better and stronger.

Contributions from the Foundation include the following areas:

  • Arts and Culture
  • Education & Leadership
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Financial Literacy
  • Health & Human Services

Our contributions are targeted to strengthen these pillars of the communities we serve:

  • Improving the well-being of our communities
  • Investing in the financial future
  • Educating and developing the next generation of leaders
  • Promoting excellence and enrichment in the arts
  • A more sustainable tomorrow and future
Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine +3 more

Research Innovation Collaboratives Grant

University Of Notre Dame Du Lac
Private
Indiana
US $25,000

Franco Family Institute for Liberal Arts and the Public Good

Founded by the College of Arts & Letters in 1984 as the Institute for Scholarship in the Liberal Arts and renamed in 2025, the Franco Family Institute for Liberal Arts and the Public Good helps advance research in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. To accomplish this goal, the institute provides faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students in the College with three main types of support.

  • Internal funding
  • Proposal development
  • Conference support

Research Innovation Collaboratives

Purpose

The Franco Institute invites proposals for Research Innovation Collaboratives to begin work during the 2026-2027 academic year.

These collaboratives encourage research and creative practice outside of departmental and institutional confines so that participants can radically reimagine the way their work can inform, influence, and inspire innovative scholarship. Each collaborative will consist of a group of scholars pursuing a core question (or small set of closely related questions). Collaboratives will foster research, art, teaching, and outreach, deepening connections across disciplines, and bringing the insights of the liberal arts to public life.

Research Innovation Collaboratives will take four forms:

  • Humanities Collaboratives, devoted to “big questions” in the humanities approached from transdisciplinary perspectives
  • Arts Collaboratives, co-sponsored by the ND Arts Initiative and devoted to collaborative research and creative practice in the arts
  • Global Catholic Research Collaboratives, co-sponsored by the ND Global Catholic Research Initiative and devoted to interdisciplinary, collaborative research on global Catholicism
  • Sustainability Collaboratives, co-sponsored by the ND Just Transformations to Sustainability Initiative and devoted to interdisciplinary, collaborative research at the nexus of sustainability and the humanities.

Applicants will have the opportunity to select all of the above categories for which they would like to be considered.

All projects must follow all relevant college and university policies and procedures.

Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Catholicism +1 more

The Mary E. Berger Scholarship Fund

The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region, Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Mary E. Berger Scholarship Fund

The Mary E. Berger Scholarship was established with a gift from Mary E. Berger and a future gift by the estate of Mary E. Berger to assist high school students who wish to attend college or university or professional school to pursue studies in art, music, history, political science, English, journalism and related liberal arts subject.

Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Competitive Community Grant- Arts & Culture ( Fall cycle)

Santa Fe Community Foundation
Private
Mora County, New Mexico, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico +2 more
US $5,000 - US $20,000

Competitive Community Grant- Arts & Culture ( Fall cycle)

Result: Arts and Culture is celebrated and reflected in the community.

We will work to improve the following outcomes in our communities:

  • Sense of community – residents feeling connected to the community and each other
  • Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds
  • Diverse participation in art and cultural community programs and events
  • Preservation and strengthening of cultural and historical heritage, traditions, and a creative economy

Through direct service, policy advocacy and/or collaboration efforts, priority strategies will address: 

  • Lifting up and preserving cultural and historical heritage, tradition, and assets of the region;
  • Using art as a bridge to communicate across cultures and languages and build transformational relationships to advance equity;
  • Using art, culture, language, and community stories to shift narratives, shape public conversations, and influence policy;
  • Improving access to arts and cultural programs to benefit youth and families who otherwise would not have the opportunities; and/or
  • Systems change including public policy, civic engagement, community organizing or public information to preserve and strengthen the arts and cultural segment of the creative economy locally.

Grant Size

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

  • Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
  • Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
  • Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
  • Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.
Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage Historic Preservation

E.M. Christmas Fund

Southern Colorado Community Foundation
Private
Pueblo County, Colorado
US $2,000 - US $5,000

For Good. Forever.

Southeastern Colorado is full of contrasts and character from the rugged peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the wide-open plains of Baca County.

E.M. Christmas Fund

Preference will be given to E.M. Christmas Fund requests that encourage or enhance leadership in some way and are granted to Pueblo County organizations.

The majority of grants awarded are $2,000-$5,000.

Community Development & Revitalization Civic Leadership Development Art & Culture +5 more

First Financial Community Grants

Hamilton Community Foundation (Ohio)
Private
Butler County, Ohio
Up to US $40,000
The First Financial Community Grants, managed by the Hamilton Community Foundation, focus on enhancing community growth in low-income areas. Established in 1951, the Foundation supports programs in neighborhood development, workforce education, and arts initiatives. By prioritizing financial literacy and cultural experiences, the Fund aims to revitalize communities and foster long-term impact, ensuring resources benefit the region sustainably. This initiative reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in Butler County, Ohio.
Art & Culture Community Services Financial Literacy +1 more

Cultural Festival Funding Awards

Greater Columbus Arts Council
Private
Franklin County, Ohio
US $3,500

About GCAC

The Greater Columbus Arts Council supports artists and arts organizations through a spectrum of grant programs, workshops, networking events and services. GCAC also shares a host of resources such as calls for artists, job opportunities, nonprofit board openings and listings of spaces for rent. Subscribe to our newsletters to stay up-to-date on GCAC grant deadlines, workshops and events.

GCAC provides marketing services that support artists and organizations through the ColumbusMakesArt.com event calendar, Artist Directory, and Public Art Database. We also produce the annual Big Arts Night recognizing business and individual contributions to the community and the Columbus Arts Festival, the city’s welcome to summer event that takes place each June.

The Greater Columbus Film Commission (Film Columbus) is a division of GCAC that aims to grow the film industry in Columbus and central Ohio by creating jobs and providing significant economic impact for the area. Film Columbus strives to build Columbus as a top city for film education, exhibition, and production by supporting filmmakers and the film industry by offering a range of services—including the only local incentive in Ohio, grants, and resources—to encourage film and media projects in our city. For more information, visit filmcolumbus.com.

GCAC programming provides access to the arts for people of all cultural backgrounds, economic status, sexual orientation, age and physical ability and ensures broad public access to the arts. Supporting Columbus artists, and arts and culture organizations enhances the cultural image of the Greater Columbus area.

Cultural Festival Funding Awards

Purpose:

To provide funding for pre-existing cultural festivals that primarily reach or represent immigrant, refugee, and New American communities through presentation of the arts and cultural heritage traditions.

Description:

Cultural festivals with a primary focus on presenting the arts (including dance, fashion, film, literary, music, theater and visual arts) that present cultural heritage traditions and primarily reach immigrant, refugee, and new American audiences, may make an annual request for Cultural Festival Funding of $3,500 from GCAC. Applicants who would like to be considered for more than $3,500 should apply for Project Support, which follows a scored, competitive funding process. Applicants may receive EITHER Project Support OR Cultural Festival Funding; organizations cannot receive both awards in the same calendar year.

Festival programming may:

  • Reflect customs and art forms that are passed down through generations.
  • Include traditional music, dance, food and crafts.
  • Honor symbolic and/or ritualistic ceremonies.
  • Observe natural events with cultural significance.

Immigrant Services Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage

Foster Foundation Support Grant

Foster Foundation
Private
Amherst County, Virginia, Appomattox County, Virginia +12 more
Unspecified amount
The Foster Foundation Support Grant aims to create a thriving community for all, particularly focusing on children, families, veterans, and seniors. Established in 2018, the Foster Foundation actively engages with local organizations in Central Virginia, providing essential funding to support their missions. The Foundation prioritizes tax-exempt entities under IRS regulations and emphasizes community-centered initiatives that resonate with its values, including education and food security.
Art & Culture Education Military & Veterans Services +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (Central Valley & Sierra)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Amador County, California, Calaveras County, California +12 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 4: Central Valley & Eastern Sierra Administered by Kern Dance Alliance (KDA)

California Arts Council (CAC) Individual Artists Fellowship is a statewide initiative; however, the KDA guidelines are specifically designed for artists living and working in the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra Region

KDA is the only Administering Organization awarding fellowship grants to Region 4: Central Valley & Eastern Sierra

KDA IAF Region: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare and Tuolumne counties

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (Inland Empire & South Coast)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Orange County, California, Riverside County, California +1 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 7: Inland Empire & South Coast Administered by Arts Orange County (ArtsOC)

Arts Orange County has been engaged by the California Arts Council to administer the application and jurying process for the Region 7 Individual Artist Fellowship, which includes Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. 

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (Far South)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Imperial County, California, San Diego County, California
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 8: Far South Administered by Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs, City of San Diego

The City of San Diego invites applications from eligible individual artists for the Individual Artist Fellowship (IAF), which provides unrestricted awards ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. The California Arts Council (CAC) has selected the City as an Administering Organization for this statewide initiative, supporting a two-year fellowship program for individual artists and culture bearers across all disciplines.

The Individual Artist Fellowship for Region 8 serves San Diego and Imperial Counties, an area spanning 9,008 square miles and home to 3.48 million residents. The program strengthens the regional arts workforce by investing directly in artists whose work contributes to the cultural vitality of their communities.

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (Central Coast)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Monterey County, California, San Benito County, California +4 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 5: Central Coast Administered by Arts Council Santa Cruz County

The City of San Diego invites applications from eligible individual artists for the Individual Artist Fellowship (IAF), which provides unrestricted awards ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. The California Arts Council (CAC) has selected the City as an Administering Organization for this statewide initiative, supporting a two-year fellowship program for individual artists and culture bearers across all disciplines.

The Individual Artist Fellowship for Region 8 serves San Diego and Imperial Counties, an area spanning 9,008 square miles and home to 3.48 million residents. The program strengthens the regional arts workforce by investing directly in artists whose work contributes to the cultural vitality of their communities.

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (Capital)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Alpine County, California, El Dorado County, California +3 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 2: Capital Administered by Teatro Nagual

The Capital Region Individual Artist Fellowship (IAF), administered by Teatro Nagual, in partnership with the California Arts Council, celebrate and support artists across disciplines who are shaping culture in the counties of Alpine, El Dorado, Sacramento, Solano and Yolo. This program provides unrestricted funding to individual artists at key moments in their careers, empowering them to deepen their practice, expand their impact, and continue contributing to their communities. 

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (Upstate)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Butte County, California, Colusa County, California +17 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 1: Upstate Administered by the Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)

In partnership with California Arts Council, Nevada County Arts & Culture is honored to serve as the Administering Organization for the Upstate Individual Artists Fellowship. The California Arts Council (CAC) has selected Nevada County Arts & Culture to design and implement a fellowship program that supports individual artists and culture bearers across all disciplines. The Upstate Individual Artists Fellowship will provide unrestricted funding in support of the fellows’ artistic practice. 

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Administering Organization – Individual Artists Fellowship (South - Los Angeles County)

California Arts Council
State/Local Government
Los Angeles County, California
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Background & Purpose

The California Arts Council (CAC) is a statewide agency committed to serving California artists, arts organizations, and communities of all sizes and needs. Guided by racial equity principles, the CAC continuously evaluates its grantmaking practices to ensure fair and inclusive funding opportunities that sustain a vibrant, safe, and resilient creative ecosystem across the state.

Through regionally based Administering Organizations (AOs), the Individual Artists Fellowship (IAF) program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures. The program includes three fellowship tiers with a different award amount:

CAC Emerging Artist Fellows – $5,000

Emerging artists are those in the beginning stages of making their work public and engaging the larger community in their practice.

CAC Established Artist Fellows – $10,000

Artists in the Established tier regularly make their work public and engage the larger community in their practice.

CAC Legacy Artist Fellows – $50,000

Artists in the Legacy tier can point to a significant body of work, produced over a substantial period of time, that has engaged their communities and that has made significant social impact.

The CAC approved eight regional AOs for the fellowship in September 2025. Each of the AOs has information and  details regarding their Individual Artists Fellowship programs, including application deadlines. If you are an individual artist, apply to the statewide fellowship program through the Regional AO listed below that serves your county. Please note: Individual artists must live in the region they are applying to and may submit an application to only one region.

  • Bay Area (Kala Art Institute) - Counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma
  • Central Valley & Sierra (Kern Dance Alliance) - Counties: Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne
  • Inland Empire & South Coast (ArtsOC) - Counties: Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange
  • Far South (Commission for Arts and Culture / Cultural Affairs) - Counties: Imperial, San Diego
  • Central Coast (Arts Council Santa Cruz County) - Counties: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Ventura
  • Capital (Teatro Nagual) - Counties: Yolo, Solano, Sacramento, El Dorado, Alpine
  • Upstate (Nevada County Arts Council (NCArts)) - Counties: Del Norte, Siskiyou, Modoc, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Lassen, Mendocino, Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Lake, Glenn, Sierra, Colusa, Sutter, Yuba, Nevada, Placer
  • South (Los Angeles Performance Practice) - County: Los Angeles

Region 6: South Administered by Los Angeles Performance Practice (Los Angeles County)

In partnership with California Arts Council (CAC), Los Angeles Performance Practice (LAPP) is thrilled to serve as the Administering Organization for the Individual Artist Fellowships in Los Angeles County.

Art & Culture Writing & Literature Performing Arts +4 more

Level 1-5: Creative Capacity Grant

Arizona Commission on the Arts
State/Local Government
Arizona
US $200 - US $10,200

Creative Capacity Grant

A grant is a form of financial assistance. The State of Arizona sets aside a certain amount of money to invest in projects that have strong potential for public benefit.

Through Creative Capacity Grants (CCGs) the State provides general operating support to nonprofit organizations whose primary mission is to produce, present, teach, or serve the arts.

CCGs are available to organizations of all sizes, but application requirements vary.

Who is it for?

Organizations may apply for Creative Capacity Grants, levels 1-5, if they…

  • are based in Arizona,
  • are incorporated as a nonprofit organization* with tax-exempt status, or are a unit of municipal or tribal government,
  • have a primary mission to produce, present, teach, or serve the arts,
  • have an annual budget of at least $4,000 and up to $399.999, and
  • will incur eligible expenses during the funding period (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027).

* Unincorporated organizations that are otherwise eligible and whose annual budget is below $200,000 may apply through a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Level 6-8: Creative Capacity Grant

Arizona Commission on the Arts
State/Local Government
Arizona
US $2,500 - US $24,000

Creative Capacity Grant

A grant is a form of financial assistance. The State of Arizona sets aside a certain amount of money to invest in projects that have strong potential for public benefit.

Through Creative Capacity Grants (CCGs) the State provides general operating support to nonprofit organizations whose primary mission is to produce, present, teach, or serve the arts.

CCGs are available to organizations of all sizes, but application requirements vary.

Who is it for?

Organizations may apply for Creative Capacity Grants, levels 6-8, if they…

  • are based in Arizona,
  • are incorporated as a nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status, or are a unit of municipal or tribal government,
  • have a primary mission to produce, present, teach, or serve the arts,
  • have a minimum annual budget of $400,000, and
  • will incur eligible expenses during the funding period (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)*

Unincorporated organizations that are otherwise eligible and whose annual budget is below $200,000 may apply through a nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Chevron Grants for Good Fund

The Taos Community Foundation Inc
Private
Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, Taos County, New Mexico
Unspecified amount

Chevron Grants for Good Fund

The Chevron Grants for Good Fund grant cycle at Taos Community Foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations serving the Questa area. Applications may be submitted for operational support, or specific projects.

Chevron contributes to a broad variety of educational, environmental, health, human service, civic, cultural and international activities.

We give priority to programs that encourage creative STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programs for grade levels K-12.

Art & Culture Education - K through 12 Civic Affairs +5 more

Tried & True Award

Santa Fe Community Foundation
Private
Mora County, New Mexico, Rio Arriba County, New Mexico +2 more
Unspecified amount

About Us

The Santa Fe Community Foundation inspires philanthropic generosity, strengthens nonprofits, and fosters positive change to build a more vibrant, healthy, and resilient region. We envision a thriving northern New Mexico, where all people can find opportunity, build connections, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

Piñon Awards

Now in its 40th year, our annual Piñon Awards recognize local nonprofits making extraordinary contributions to northern New Mexico communities. First held in a board member’s living room, the awards ceremony has become a beloved fall tradition filling the La Fonda ballroom with supporters, community leaders, and friends new and old. Thank you for joining us in honoring the nonprofit leaders who make our region a better place for all.

Each year, the Santa Fe Community Foundation proudly presents Piñon Awards to nonprofit organizations making extraordinary contributions to northern New Mexico communities. We are currently accepting nominations for our 40th Annual Piñon Awards through Friday, May 8, 2026.

Tried & True Award

An organization that has served the community for over a decade with consistent and high-quality programs, services, and opportunities despite changes in the external environment.

Art & Culture Animal Welfare - General Civic Engagement & Education +3 more

Niskayuna Community Foundation Full Grant Program

Niskayuna Community Foundation
Association/Society
Schenectady County, New York
US $2,000 - US $10,000

NCF is pleased to offer grant funding for organizations serving Niskayuna town residents and/or the Niskayuna school district. To be eligible, the applicant organization must qualify as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization according to IRS guidelines; or operate under the fiscal sponsorship of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; or be sponsored by the town or school district.

Niskayuna Community Foundation Full Grant Program

The Niskayuna Community Foundation places the highest priority on projects that address significant community issues. Single grants will range from $2,000 to $10,000. Grants are awarded in the following fields:

  • ​health and human services
  • arts and culture
  • community development
  • conservation and historic preservation
  • recreation
  • capital projects including equipment purchases ​
Art & Culture Recreation Human & Social Services +3 more

Niskayuna Community Foundation Mini-Grant Program

Niskayuna Community Foundation
Association/Society
Schenectady County, New York
Up to US $2,000

NCF is pleased to offer grant funding for organizations serving Niskayuna town residents and/or the Niskayuna school district. To be eligible, the applicant organization must qualify as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization according to IRS guidelines; or operate under the fiscal sponsorship of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; or be sponsored by the town or school district.

Niskayuna Community Foundation Mini-Grant Program

The Niskayuna Community Foundation considers mini-grant applications for up to $2000 that meet the same qualifications for full grants. Mini-grant applications are welcome and awards can be made year round. 

Grants are awarded in the following fields:

  • ​health and human services
  • arts and culture
  • community development
  • conservation and historic preservation
  • recreation
  • capital projects including equipment purchases ​
Art & Culture Recreation Human & Social Services +3 more

SFCA Outreach Initiative Program

Hawai'i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts
State/Local Government
Hawaii
Unspecified amount

Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts

The mission of the Hawai‘i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (SFCA) is to promote, perpetuate, and preserve culture and the arts in Hawai‘i. SFCA funding is provided by the State of Hawai‘i and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Outreach Initiative Program

The State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (SFCA) provides public funds through the Outreach Initiative Program to support statewide touring and outreach activities that increase opportunities for individuals to experience different forms of artistic and cultural expression and engagement. The program supports the SFCA Strategic Priority Hoʻākoakoa (convene, to call together) to build community capacity for creativity, communication, and learning.

Program Scope

Administer a statewide touring program providing arts and culture outreach activities to under-served communities including, but not limited to, rural, socio-economic disadvantaged, geographically disadvantaged, programs for disadvantaged youth, programs for Native or immigrant populations, and activities involving individuals with varying abilities. The touring and outreach activities must be accessible. Activities must occur in person at public spaces, senior centers, public libraries, public housing communities, or a hybrid of online/streaming. The Outreach Initiative Program must provide activities to at least three (3) islands, including outreach to rural and/or under-served communities.

Community Culture & Heritage Performing Arts Media Arts +6 more

Kresge Innovative Projects: Detroit Plus - Cultural Heritage Grants

Kresge Foundation
Private
Wayne County, Michigan
Up to US $100,000

About KIP:D+ Cultural Heritage

Kresge Innovative Projects: Detroit Plus (KIP:D+) funds projects in Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park neighborhoods that support the vision and creativity of residents. We support inclusive, collaborative processes that authentically engage community members in planning, design and implementation.

Through project funding, capacity building, and support for transformative initiatives, KIP:D+ enables grantees to foster resilience, collaboration, and meaningful change.

This round of KIP:D+ focuses on Cultural Heritage. We’re funding arts, culture, and community projects that help neighborhoods remember their history, share stories and traditions, and carry forward community legacy.

Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage

KAC | Arts Everywhere Grants: Arts in Education

Kansas Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Kansas
Up to US $10,000

Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.

Kansas Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

  • Arts in Education;
  • Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
  • Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
  • Visiting Artists

Arts in Education

This category funds projects that support the role the arts play in all levels of education, community service, and workforce development. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, and enhance community development. Arts in Education projects can take many forms and may or may not involve a professional teaching artist residency taking place over a period of days.

Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Involvement in the Arts Art & Culture +2 more

KAC | Arts Everywhere Grants: Organizational Development - Capacity Building

Kansas Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Kansas
Up to US $5,000

Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.

Kansas Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

  • Arts in Education;
  • Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
  • Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
  • Visiting Artists

Organizational Development

Only organizations with arts and culture missions are eligible for Organizational Development. Organizational Development Grants are for: Capacity Building and Salary Assistance.

Capacity Building

This funding category provides up to $5,000 for projects that increase administrative or artistic capacity but do not provide public-facing programs. Eligible projects include but are not limited to:

  • Staff/volunteer exchange
  • Professional development opportunities such as attendance at seminars and workshops
  • Planning for development opportunities such as fundraising or marketing
  • Equipment/technology needs.

Art & Culture Nonprofit Growth & Development

CA$H Theatre Grant - CA$H Performs

Theatre Bay Area
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +9 more
US $5,000
The CA$H Theatre Grant, provided by Theatre Bay Area, supports fully-produced performances of artistic projects that are publicly accessible. This grant aims to empower individual artists and small theatre companies in the San Francisco Bay Area, promoting a diverse cultural landscape. Since its inception in 1999, CA$H has facilitated a range of projects, from traditional productions to innovative hybrid experiences, emphasizing the importance of equity and inclusion in the arts.
Artist Training & Development Artist Residencies Art & Culture

Arts Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Arts grants provide vital funding for nonprofits to support cultural programs, arts education, and community engagement initiatives. These grants encourage creativity, preserve heritage, and empower organizations to foster artistic growth and accessibility in diverse communities.


Search Instrumentl's Arts Grants Database


Search 519 arts grants with over $24.5M in funding. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to private foundations, government funders, and corporate sponsors. Streamline your search, track deadlines, and access funder profiles to enhance your organization’s impact.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 2026.

Grant Insights : Arts Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

500+ Arts grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

100+ Arts grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

68 Arts grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

200+ Arts grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

400+ Arts grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Art & Culture

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Arts grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
32.2%
Q2
23.0%
Q3
25.1%
Q4
19.7%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Arts Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $10,000.

$250 $250 Min.
$10,000 $10 K Median
$78,057 $78.1 K Average
$6,000,000 $6 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Instrumentl simplifies the search for arts grants by curating opportunities tailored to a nonprofit’s mission, tracking deadlines, and providing funder insights to optimize grant-seeking strategies. We're ranked as one of the best places to find grants.

Nonprofits that support artists, teach art, host artist residencies, and do community arts projects can get arts grants. Groups that focus on performing arts, visual arts, and creative stuff.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for arts grants, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 32.2% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

These arts grants encourage creativity, support artists and cultural organizations, and increase public access to art. They want community engagement through art, fostering cultural diversity and creativity.

On average, arts grants provide funding between $250 and $6,000,000, with typical awards falling around $10,000 (median) and $78,057 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Major funders of arts grants include federal agencies such as National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), and foundations like Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

State and local governments also provide funding through their "arts and culture councils". Additionally, these arts grants are also funded by corporate sponsors interested in supporting creative expression.

To improve grant success, nonprofits should:

  • Show Impact – Show your programs' social and cultural impact on the society.
  • Build strategic partnerships – Develop partnerships with community initiatives and local artists to strengthen applications.
  • Develop a compelling narrative – Demonstrate successful audience engagements and sustainability.

Want to improve your grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our detailed guide to grant prospect research.