Best Arts Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

Nonprofit arts organizations and other nonprofits with ongoing public arts programs in Maryland can receive annual operating or program support, with awards of more than US $50,000. Grants from Maryland State Arts Council help fund dance, theater, music, visual, literary, folk, multidisciplinary, and service-based arts activities that strengthen the state’s cultural infrastructure.

The Maryland State Arts Council offers the Professional Development Opportunity Grant to support artists and arts organizations in Maryland. This rolling grant program encourages relevant professional development, ensuring that applicants can enhance their skills and community engagement. With monthly reviews, the program aims to allocate funding throughout the fiscal year, allowing for diverse artistic growth and learning opportunities. Eligible applicants include independent artists and arts organizations seeking to better serve their communities through accessible arts programming.

The MSAC Creativity Grants for Projects, offered by the Maryland State Arts Council, aim to enhance the sustainability of artists and small organizations. This program supports specific arts projects that engage the community and foster creative expression. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with monthly reviews from July 2025 to March 2026. Eligible independent artists and organizations can receive funding for diverse arts initiatives, contributing to a vibrant cultural landscape in Maryland.

MSDE Grant Programs

MSDE operates many formula and non-formula grants. All active grant programs are listed below and link directly to the grant program's dedicated webpage. MSDE will continue to add to and expand this page as the Department's new Office of Grants Administration and Compliance rolls out. 

Maggie McIntosh School Arts Fund FY27

The Maggie McIntosh School Arts Fund supports the expansion of arts programs for students in Baltimore City Public Schools.

Funding is used to expand arts curriculum by providing grants to schools for classroom art supplies and student arts experiences through partnerships led by Arts Every Day.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits with projects in state Priority Funding Areas can apply for Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Community Investment Tax Credits; awards up to US $10,000 in tax credit allocations to leverage charitable contributions. Eligible projects include arts and culture, historic preservation, community revitalization, youth services, housing, and services for at-risk populations.

Grants from the John J. Leidy Foundation help Maryland arts and culture nonprofits, along with other 501(c)(3) organizations, fund operating support, new or ongoing programs, and equipment, typically in the Baltimore metro area. Awards of US $1,000 - US $10,000 may also support education, health and human services, social and economic welfare, and services for disabled persons.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Wolpoff Family Foundation Grant seeks to support established organizations in Montgomery County, Maryland, that have been operational for at least five years. This foundation aims to foster community development, education, and medical research, and invites re-applications from previously funded organizations. Grants are available for specific initiatives, with a maximum award of $15,000 for first-time grantees, focusing on measurable impacts and community needs.

The Abell Foundation offers Community Development Grants to support nonprofit organizations improving Baltimore's quality of life. These small grants, typically under $10,000, fund innovative projects, ongoing services, and capital initiatives aimed at addressing systemic challenges. Focused on fostering equity, the Foundation targets organizations with 501c3 status that serve Baltimore City and align with its core program areas, including health, education, and community development.

The France-Merrick Foundation Grant, focusing on Maryland's Greater Baltimore area, supports one-time, project-oriented requests exceeding $50,000. Prioritizing financial sustainability, the Foundation funds projects across civic, cultural, community, economic development, education, health, and environmental sectors. It emphasizes innovative collaborations to enhance community vitality and resilience while ensuring adherence to sustainable practices. Organizations must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status and financial stability, with a commitment to improving lives and strengthening neighborhoods through targeted initiatives.

Maryland arts and culture nonprofits, schools, and other 501(c)(3) public institutions can seek funding for cultural programs, performances, and arts education initiatives. Focused on strengthening communities and families, Delaplaine Foundation also supports related education, health, human services, historic preservation, and spiritual enrichment projects, with priority for work benefiting Frederick County and nearby areas.

The Peoples Bank Foundation Grant aims to create a significant impact in local communities by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With over 20 years of service, the foundation has awarded more than $7.5 million in grants and scholarships across several states. It prioritizes initiatives that assist low to moderate-income individuals and families, encouraging organizations within its footprint to apply for funding to enhance their community-focused programs.

Maryland arts nonprofits presenting live performances can access funding through the Maryland State Arts Council’s Maryland Touring Grant to support engagements with artists on the Maryland Performing Artists Touring Roster, with awards from US $500 - US $5,000. Eligible presenters use these funds to bring professional touring artists to their communities and expand arts access statewide.