Best Grants for Visual Artists in Minnesota

The Furer-Barag-Wolf Post 126 Jewish War Veterans Scholarship Award supports children or grandchildren of JWV Post 126 members, providing merit-based assistance for college or vocational education. Eligible applicants must reside in specific counties in New Jersey or be related to a JWV member. The scholarship covers tuition, books, and living expenses and is open for reapplication annually. This initiative by the Jewish Community Foundation fosters educational opportunities for deserving students.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Paul Collins Scholarship

Open to undergraduate students who are residents of Kent County who will study visual or performing arts and have a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Cody Albert Memorial Scholarship

Established by Dale and Linda Albert in memory of their son Cody to provide a college scholarship to students from Susquehanna County who will major in the Visual Arts, Psychology, or Physical Therapy and who have overcome anxiety, depression, or other adversity.

Melissa Wroblewski Scholarship

The Melissa Wroblewski Memorial Scholarship was established in loving memory of Melissa Wroblewski, a graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School. This award is presented annually to a graduating senior from Kalamazoo Central or Loy Norrix High School who desires to pursue studies in the visual arts.

KZCF scholarships may be applied to any items under your school’s cost of attendance (COA). Each school has a different COA that may include items such as tuition, fees, housing, transportation, food, health insurance, etc. Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution.

This scholarship is a one-time award, meaning that it will not repeat in subsequent years. The money awarded can be applied to your education costs alongside other scholarships or funding that you may receive, and there are no necessary steps once funds are sent.

Ann N. MacGregor Scholarship

This fund was established in 2007, through a gift from the estate of Ann N. MacGregor, to provide scholarship assistance for incoming freshmen, undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in a visual arts curriculum. Demonstrating financial need is not required, but preferred. Additional application materials are required for this scholarship.

Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution. 

This scholarship is a one-time award, meaning that it will not repeat in subsequent years. The money awarded can be applied to your education costs alongside other scholarships or funding that you may receive, and there are no necessary steps once funds are sent.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Elaine Sirkin Forbes Scholarship Fund

The Elaine Sirkin Forbes Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for high school seniors graduating from Allegheny County Schools who wish to major in visual, performance or media art.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

Columbus Matrix Foundation Scholarship

Since the early days of print journalism, The Association for Women in Communications has evolved to become the overarching professional organization to unite communicators across a vast spectrum of disciplines-from print and broadcast journalism, to graphic design, photography, public relations, advertising, marketing, new media, and much more.

Award Amount:

• Up to four scholarships of $10,000 payable over four years at $2,500 per academic year.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Diversity in Advertising Scholarship

The scholarship is intended for students studying Marketing, Advertising or Design with a career focus of Digital Marketing, Advertising, Design and/or Computer Science at any accredited institution. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement.

Special consideration will be given to those active in school activities, community service, and work experience. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply. 

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Harold Balazs Creating Wonder Scholarship

The Creating Wonder Scholarship is for graduating high school seniors in Spokane County who are planning to attend a post-high school program at full-time status. Applicants must pursue one of the following fields: Art, Art Education, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, Advertising, Marketing, Photography, Cinematography, Publishing or Graphic Arts. Samples of artwork are required for the scholarship program.

This is not intended for performing art students. Talent, discipline, commitment, passion, experience and ability to express through art are primary factors for consideration. Financial need and academic achievement are also considered. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Melvin L. and Frances E. Tolson Scholarship Trust Fund

The Melvin L. and Frances E. Tolson Scholarship Trust Fund was established to assist students who are residents of Carroll County, Ohio in furthering their education with interests in either aviation, art education or fine and performing arts who are enrolled or accepted at a college, university, technical, or vocational school.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Velma Shotwell Griffin Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Velma Shotwell Griffin Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduates of Conotton Valley or Carrollton High Schools planning to enroll, or currently enrolled, at an accredited college or university to pursue further education in the following fields: History, Writing (not limited to, English, Journalism, Language Arts, Communications and programs in Mass Media), Graphic Arts, Music (which shall include but not limited to, vocal music, instrumental music, music history, music education, and music performance) and any other program or field of study approved by the Selection Committee. 

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

O'Shea Patrick McCarthy Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Barbara Miller Meeker Art Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

C. Jerry & Lynne Dernbach Scholarship

Criteria for Selection:

• Pursuing a degree in the Visual Arts field, Mechanical Design, or Architecture. 

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The LRAC Fellowship, a $5,000 grant from the Lake Region Arts Council, aims to support exceptional artists in the LRAC nine-county area. Open to disciplines including music, visual arts, literary, and performance, this fellowship recognizes artistic excellence and encourages creative growth. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 25 years old, and residents of the LRAC region for at least 12 months. This funding helps artists pursue new directions and enhance their contributions to the community.

The Five Wings Arts Council offers Small Grants for Community Arts Projects to support local artists and organizations in Cass, Crow Wing, Todd, Morrison, and Wadena counties. Grants up to $1000 are available for first-time arts producers or presenters. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, fostering community engagement through enriching arts and cultural activities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, public schools, and governmental units. It aims to promote artistic expression and community involvement throughout the region.

The SMAC Art Project Grants support nonprofit organizations in Minnesota to enhance the arts through various projects, including performances, exhibits, and community arts education. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to eligible organizations, specifically those classified as 501(c)(3) and located within the SW MN Arts Council service region. Applications from public schools and those using fiscal sponsors are also welcomed, ensuring that diverse artistic initiatives can flourish in the community.

The Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund Legacy Grant, administered by the East Central Regional Arts Council, supports diverse arts projects in the Region 7E area. This funding initiative encourages applications from organizations and nonprofits to enhance arts access, education, and cultural heritage. Eligible projects include performances, exhibitions, workshops, and public art initiatives, fostering community engagement and artistic expression. Applicants may submit one application per deadline, with no limit on the number of grants awarded annually.

The East Central Regional Arts Council (ECRAC) offers grants for local and regional arts projects. This funding supports organizations in creating, sponsoring, publishing, performing, and exhibiting art. Eligible projects include performances, exhibitions, local theatre productions, artist residencies, public art projects, and workshops. There is no limit to the number of grants an organization can receive each fiscal year, but only one application per grant deadline is allowed.

The SEMAC Individual Artist: Emerging Artist Grant provides $3,000 to support artists who have demonstrated some achievement but lack extensive recognition. This grant encourages creativity across various disciplines, including Dance, Music, and Visual Arts, culminating in a public engagement event. Artists must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens, and residents of the SEMAC Region for six months. Notably, matching funds are not required, making this an accessible opportunity for emerging talent.

The Veneklasen Research Foundation Grant supports scientific research in acoustics and related fields, promoting high standards of research. Eligible applicants include public charities and individuals with a demonstrated interest in acoustics. The Foundation emphasizes careful stewardship of resources and maintains relationships within the private foundation community to enhance collaboration. Proposals are reviewed through a letter of inquiry and full proposals are by invitation only, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's mission and objectives.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant supports educational programs that enhance community quality of life. Focused on fostering self-sufficiency and job readiness, the Foundation values strong relationships and employee engagement. By funding diverse non-profit initiatives, it aims to ensure that all children have access to quality education and that communities thrive through enhanced educational opportunities. Currently, applications are invited only, aligning with their commitment to impactful community partnerships.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

The Central Minnesota Arts Grant supports small to medium-sized arts organizations in Central Minnesota, aiming to enhance accessibility to the arts for local residents. Offered in even years, this grant prioritizes initiatives that foster artistic appreciation, education, and engagement in visual and performing arts. The grant is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, with a focus on building community connections and inspiring philanthropy across generations.

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council provides grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 for arts projects benefiting communities in northwestern Minnesota. Eligible applicants include non-profits and governmental entities, supporting initiatives like public art, theatrical productions, and community workshops. A minimum cash match of 10% is required, increasing to 25% for certain projects. This funding aims to enhance cultural engagement and artistic development across seven counties in the region.

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council offers the Arts Grants for Schools program, providing funding up to $3,000 for artistic equipment in schools across seven counties. Eligible applicants include Minnesota non-profit organizations and school districts, with a 25% cash match required. This initiative aims to enhance the visual arts, performing arts, media arts, and creative writing departments in educational institutions, fostering creativity and artistic development.