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Best Grants for Performing Arts

Discover grants for performing arts organizations supporting theater, music, dance, outreach, and cultural enrichment.

540

Available grants

$15.4M

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

540 grants
$15.4M total
$5K median

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540 Results based on applied filters

Grants for Organizations: Program Support

Broward County Cultural Division
State/Local Government
Broward County, Florida
Up to US $15,000
The Broward County Cultural Division offers a Program Support grant aimed at funding high-quality artistic projects by both arts and non-arts organizations. This grant encourages diverse activities that enhance community engagement and accessibility to the arts. Applicants can propose new or ongoing projects of any size, including events like festivals or singular artistic endeavors. The initiative seeks to broaden audience participation and enrich the cultural landscape of Broward County.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Art & Culture Performing Arts +1 more

City of Alexandria: Annual Arts Program Grant

City of Alexandria
State/Local Government
Alexandria City, Virginia
Up to US $10,000
The City of Alexandria offers Annual Arts Program Grants to enhance access to quality arts initiatives for residents and visitors. These grants support ongoing or short-term arts programs, requiring a dollar-for-dollar cash match. Eligible applicants must be non-profit organizations with programs occurring within city limits. Grant webinars are mandatory for applicants, ensuring they are well-prepared for the application process. The program aims to foster artistic excellence and community engagement through diverse artistic opportunities.
Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation Artist Residencies +2 more

GIG Fund: Interstate Touring

Arts Midwest
Private
Illinois, Indiana +7 more
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.
Art & Culture Visual Arts Performing Arts +1 more

Iseminger Endowment for the Arts Grant Program

Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks, and Region
Private
Grand Forks County, North Dakota, Polk County, Minnesota +1 more
Up to US $20,000
The Iseminger Endowment for the Arts Grant Program, established in 2017, aims to enhance artistic and cultural experiences in North Dakota. Funding is available for diverse art forms, with a focus on musical performances. To qualify, projects must be specific, public, and benefit local communities. Grants are capped at $22,500. Eligible applicants include nonprofits with tax-exempt status. Restrictions apply to overhead costs, fundraising, and other non-eligible expenses.
Art & Culture Art Education Arts / Culture Access & Participation +2 more

ASTR Targeted Research Area Grant

American Society for Theatre Research
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $3,000
The ASTR Targeted Research Area Grant supports projects by scholars focusing on under-represented areas in theatre, dance, and performance studies. This includes research on Asian, African, Latin American, and Middle Eastern disciplines, as well as pre-1900 studies and essential translations. The grant, offering up to $3000, encourages recipients to publish their findings and collaborate with Theatre Survey editors. Eligibility extends to scholars with terminal degrees and graduate students, provided they are ASTR members.
Theater Dance Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +5 more

Sachs Family Foundation Grant

Erich & Hannah Sachs Foundation
Private
Africa, Central America +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.
Education Performing Arts Entrepreneurship +13 more

Education Foundation for Cle Elum-Roslyn Grant

Education Foundation for Cle Elum-Roslyn
Private
Kittitas County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Education Foundation for Cle Elum-Roslyn Grant supports innovative educational programs that enhance K-12 student learning in the Cle Elum-Roslyn School District. This non-profit organization focuses on STEM education, classroom technology, fine arts, and vocational initiatives. By bridging funding gaps, the foundation aims to provide students with the resources needed to excel academically and fosters out-of-the-box learning experiences that leave a lasting impact.
Education - K through 12 Performing Arts Fine Art +4 more

DGF Musical Theater Fellow

Dramatists Guild Foundation
Private
New York County, New York
US $5,000

The DGF Fellows program is a year-long New York City-based intensive for professional dramatists who are looking to develop their existing work at the next level of their careers. The Fellows program is a free program hosted by the Dramatists Guild Foundation, designed to eliminate historical barriers of entry for many emerging dramatists.

This cohort of playwrights, composers, lyricists, librettists, and bookwriters will work together under the guidance and leadership of prominent program chairs to develop their current work in pursuit of further development and production.

This year, the program will work as an accelerator program for dramatists with existing works still in their revision process. Within the structure of the program is a uniquely successful format of partnering playwrights and musical theater writers during the learning process. Fellows who are selected will receive a $5,000 scholarship, access to career resources, and the opportunity to partner with several arts organizations.

Additionally, the program provides its Fellows with one-on-one mentoring from accomplished professionals in the field who help them hone their process, find their unique voice, and revise and edit existing work ready for development. At the end of the program, each Fellow will have an opportunity to participate in a presentation of their work for top theater professionals.

Writing & Literature Performing Arts Theater

Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant - Connecticut (New London & Windham Counties)

Nordson Corporation Foundation
Corporate
New London County, Connecticut, Windham County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Connecticut's New London and Windham Counties through education and community support. Since its inception, the Foundation has invested over $60 million in grants, with a commitment to empowering local non-profits that foster educational opportunities, human welfare, civic engagement, and arts and culture. With a strong emphasis on measurable impact, the Foundation aims to create sustainable, vibrant communities by supporting initiatives that promote long-term self-sufficiency and community enrichment.
Urban Planning Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +17 more

Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant - Minnesota (Hennepin County)

Nordson Corporation Foundation
Corporate
Hennepin County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in communities across the U.S., particularly through education. Since 1989, it has awarded over $60 million, prioritizing grants for tax-exempt organizations in areas where Nordson operates. The foundation emphasizes long-term community needs, supporting initiatives in education, human welfare, civic affairs, and the arts. Its commitment includes funding general operating support for nonprofits, ensuring they can measure program effectiveness and foster self-sufficiency.
Urban Planning Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +17 more

The Mellon Foundation Long-Term Fellowships

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Cook County, Illinois
US $20,000 - US $45,000
The Mellon Foundation Long-Term Fellowships, hosted by the Newberry Library, offer scholars the opportunity to engage deeply with its extensive collections. This fellowship supports innovative research across various disciplines, allowing recipients to immerse themselves in the library's rich historical resources for four to nine months. International scholars are welcome, and applications are encouraged from those proposing effective use of the Newberry’s collections. This initiative fosters a vibrant community of learning and discovery.
Humanities & Social Science Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +4 more

The Herzog August Bibliothek Wolfenbüttel Joint Fellowship: Long Term

The Newberry Library
Association/Society
Germany
Up to €4,250
The Herzog August Bibliothek Wolfenbüttel Joint Fellowship offers scholars the opportunity to conduct long-term research at the Newberry Library and the Herzog August Bibliothek in Germany. This fellowship, which provides an additional month of support, is open to scholars with a PhD or equivalent terminal degree. It fosters innovative research and collaboration, allowing recipients to explore extensive collections while enjoying a stipend of 1,800 Euro/month and travel reimbursement.
Humanities & Social Science Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature +4 more

AICEF: Cultural Grant

American-Indonesian Cultural & Educational Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The AICEF Cultural Grant aims to enhance cultural ties between the United States and Indonesia by funding projects in the performing, visual, and literary arts. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, the foundation seeks to support distinguished individuals and groups whose work is accessible to the public and fosters goodwill between the two nations. This initiative not only promotes artistic excellence but also bridges cultural exchanges for a diverse audience.
Writing & Literature Performing Arts Visual Arts +1 more

Ralph J. Torraco Fine Arts Scholarship

UNICO Foundation Inc
Association/Society
California, Connecticut +12 more
US $2,500
The Ralph J. Torraco Fine Arts Scholarship, offered by the UNICO Foundation, awards two $2,500 scholarships to U.S. students studying Fine Arts, including Performing, Visual, or Technical Arts. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0, enrolled full-time in an accredited college, and planning to continue their studies into the 2025-2026 academic year. This scholarship aims to support and promote Italian American culture and heritage through the arts.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Performing Arts +2 more

Indigenous Scholarships: Arts Fund (AUS to USA and USA to AUS)

American Australian Association
Private
Australia, United States
US $10,000
The Indigenous Scholarships: Arts Fund facilitates artistic development for Aboriginal Australian, Torres Strait Islander, Native American, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian artists. Offering up to $5,000, it supports projects in each other's countries, with applications due in March and September. Since 2002, over $1 million has been awarded to more than 500 artists, fostering cultural exchange and growth in the arts between Australia and the USA.
Writing & Literature Performing Arts Media Arts +5 more

Arts & Social Cohesion Grant

Vermont Community Foundation
Private
Vermont
Up to US $12,000
The Arts & Social Cohesion Grant, funded by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to enhance community belonging through diverse artistic projects. Grants up to $10,000 will support initiatives like mural projects, artist residencies, and public performances that foster collaboration and engagement. The program prioritizes projects that connect marginalized voices and create inclusive environments, encouraging social interaction and community cohesion. This grant is designed for nonprofits and community groups focused on impactful artistic endeavors.
Music Performing Arts Dance +4 more

Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship

Villa I Tatti, The Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies
Association/Society
Italy
Up to US $32,700
The Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship provides a six-month residential opportunity for post-doctoral scholars focused on cultural exchanges between Africa and the Mediterranean from 1250-1750. With a monthly stipend of USD 5,200 and relocation support, the fellowship requires residency in Florence and emphasizes original research in African history. Applicants must hold a PhD and be fluent in English, Italian, or French, ensuring a solid foundation in early modern global exchanges.
Art History Archaeology Music +6 more

SEMAC Individual Artist: Grants for Advancing Artists

Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, Inc.
Private
Dodge County, Minnesota, Fillmore County, Minnesota +9 more
US $3,000 - US $6,000
The SEMAC Individual Artist Grants support artists in the SEMAC Region by providing financial assistance to foster original artistic work. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 are available for various disciplines including Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens aged 18 and over, who are full-time residents of the SEMAC Region. The program encourages diverse artists, including those from underrepresented communities, to apply and showcase their work in public events.
Writing & Literature Performing Arts Visual Arts

Howard Fellowships

George A and Eliza Gardner Howard Foundation
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $40,000
The Howard Fellowships, administered by the George A. and Eliza Gardner Howard Foundation, support early mid-career artists and scholars with $40,000 awards for independent projects in selected fields. This unrestricted, non-residency fellowship encourages significant creative development and public visibility through exhibitions or publications. Applicants should demonstrate a promising program of work and must currently reside in the U.S. or its territories. Ten fellowships are awarded annually, promoting artistic and intellectual advancement.
Performing Arts Dance Theater

Mid Atlantic Tours Grants

Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation
Private
Delaware, District of Columbia +8 more
Up to US $2,000
The Mid Atlantic Tours Grants program supports presenters in the mid-Atlantic region who engage Roster Artists during their project periods. Eligible presenters can receive up to a 50% subsidy for artist compensation, which includes fees, housing, and travel. The application process is straightforward and non-competitive, but early engagement with the artist's tour manager is advised due to limited funding. This initiative fosters a diverse range of performances and community engagement.
Performing Arts

Alabama Power Foundation: Power to Play Grants

Alabama Power Foundation
Corporate
Alabama
Up to US $2,500
The Alabama Power Foundation's Power to Play Grants aim to enhance student success through athletics, arts, and music. With a focus on equitable access, these grants support schools and organizations in creating opportunities for K-12 students. By facilitating extracurricular involvement, the program fosters improved academic performance and graduation rates. Eligible applicants include Title I schools and 501(c)(3) organizations, with funding directed towards new sports, arts programs, and music initiatives, ultimately enriching the educational experience for students across Alabama.
Art Education Sports & Athletics Education - Middle School +7 more

BCA: Arts on the Block Grants

Bronx Council on the Arts
Private
Bronx County, New York
Up to US $1,500
The Bronx Council on the Arts offers the Arts on the Block Grants to support local organizations in hosting arts activities at block parties and festivals. Grants of up to $1,500 are available for artist fees to enhance event attendance. Applicants must be Bronx-based organizations or associations, with a minimum one-year existence and proof of non-profit status. Preference is given to smaller organizations and those new to BCA funding, fostering cultural equity and community engagement.
Performing Arts Art Festivals Music Festivals

WACF - New London Spicer Area Fund Grant

CommunityGiving
Private
Kandiyohi County, Minnesota
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The WACF - New London Spicer Area Fund Grant supports community advancements through citizen participation and professional management. As a fund of the Willmar Area Community Foundation, it focuses on arts, healthy lifestyles, environmental sustainability, and collaborative initiatives. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, while it avoids funding individuals, political campaigns, and completed projects. The grant emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and equity in funded projects.
Art & Culture Performing Arts Fine Art +2 more

Sauk Centre Area Arts Grants

CommunityGiving
Private
Stearns County, Minnesota
US $3,000 - US $20,000
The Sauk Centre Area Arts Grants, provided by CommunityGiving, aim to enhance arts and cultural activities in the Sauk Centre area. These grants support a variety of projects, including visual and performing arts, and prioritize initiatives that foster community engagement and accessibility for disadvantaged populations. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, with a focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts.
Art & Culture Visual Arts Performing Arts +2 more

Idaho Power’s Community Contributions

Idacorp Employee Community Services Fund Inc.
Corporate
Ada County, Idaho, Adams County, Idaho +27 more
Unspecified amount
Idaho Power Company is dedicated to enhancing community well-being through financial and in-kind contributions that support various local initiatives. Their approach emphasizes accountability while balancing the needs of their customers and shareholders. The organization focuses on health services, education, arts, civic engagement, environmental stewardship, and diverse community support. Idaho Power aims to foster inclusive practices and timely responses to contribution requests, ultimately enriching the quality of life in the regions they serve.
Health & Medicine Human & Social Services Health Care Access & Delivery +17 more

Emily Hall Tremaine Exhibition Award

The Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $50,000 - US $150,000
The Emily Hall Tremaine Exhibition Award, established in 1998, supports innovative, thematic exhibitions that present contemporary art within unconventional frameworks. It fosters creativity by offering funding up to $200,000 for curators partnering with non-profit spaces. The award encourages exploration of critical ideas, emphasizing intellectual quality and public impact. Eligible applicants include established curators and institutions, aiming to promote artistic expression while enhancing community engagement and discourse through diverse projects.
Visual Arts Performing Arts Architecture

Emily Hall Tremaine Exhibition Research Grant

The Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $10,000
The Emily Hall Tremaine Exhibition Research Grant supports innovative projects that explore contemporary art in new frameworks. With a focus on education in the United States, the foundation emphasizes the importance of research that challenges conventional thought. Grants of $10,000 are awarded to curators collaborating with established non-profits, promoting impactful exhibitions. The foundation aims to foster family unity and respect while addressing enduring societal issues through art, environment, and learning differences.
Visual Arts Performing Arts Architecture

Grants for Performing Arts Highlights

Grants for performing arts provide funding to support theatrical productions, dance companies, and music ensembles. The following grants help organizations promote artistic expression, foster cultural enrichment, and expand access to live performances.


Search Instrumentl's Performing Arts Grants Database


Explore 137 funding opportunities for performing arts, with $5.9M available. Instrumentl helps nonprofits sustain and grow cultural programming with strategic grant recommendations, deadline tracking, and funder insights.

Grant Insights : Grants for Performing Arts

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

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

15 Grants for Performing Arts over $25K in average grant size

7 Grants for Performing Arts over $50K in average grant size

33 Grants for Performing Arts supporting general operating expenses

100+ Grants for Performing Arts supporting programs / projects

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Performing Arts

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Youth Services

Grant Deadline Distribution

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

Most grants are due in the second quarter.

Q1
26.9%
Q2
27.8%
Q3
24.8%
Q4
20.5%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $5,500.

$250 $250 Min.
$5,500 $5.5 K Median
$57,943 $57.9 K Average
$3,750,500 $3.8 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Instrumentl simplifies the grant application process for nonproft organizations interested in grants for performing arts. This platform streamlines your search of more than 100 grant opportunities by helping you filter out relevant funding opportunities. The platform also gives detailed funder insights that help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities. Discover how Eversight increased their grant success rate from 14% to 22%.

Nonprofits who are interested in grants for performing arts include nonprofit theatres, dance companies, orchestras, and arts education organizations. Funders provide grant monies that support theatrical productions, dance companies, and music ensembles. Many grants require applicants to be 501(c)(3) organizations and may prioritize programs that increase access to the arts, support emerging artists, and promote cultural diversity.

Grants in performing arts typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q2, with 27.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

Performing arts grants support artistic performances, theatrical productions, dance companies, music ensembles, educational outreach, artist residencies, and community engagement initiatives. Funders also aim to promote and enhance artistic and cultural expression, expand arts accessibility and access to live performances, foster cultural enricnment, and sustain creative institutions. Over 100 grants are available and $2.6 million in funding is being offered for nonprofit groups that support the arts and artistic expression.

Funding for performing arts grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $250 to a maximum of $3,750,500. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $5,500, while the average grant awarded is $57,943. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Of the $2.6 million available in funding, most comes from private funders and state and local government entities. On the private side of grant funding, the Gates Family Foundation, the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation, and the New England Foundation For The Arts are just a few private grantors that support the performing arts.

In addition, there are many and state and local government funders, including the Utah Division of Art & Museums, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the California Arts Council. Federal funding is also available through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

To improve grant success in the performing arts, nonprofit organizations should concentrate on all of these key areas:

  • Align with funder priorities – Tailor proposals to match the funder’s mission and present clear audience engagement strategies in key areas.
  • Use measurable outcomes – Provide data that demonstrates the impact of their programs.
  • Build strategic partnerships – Collaborate with local schools or cultural institutions.
  • Develop a compelling narrative – Tell the narratives of theatrical productions, dance companies, or performing arts students who have been helped by your programs.

Not sure how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.