Best Arts Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation offers Collections-Related Grants for Nonprofits, aimed at enhancing public interest in art through innovative projects. Grants support exhibitions, academic convenings, research, and catalog publication, focusing on art from the Spanish Americas, digital media, and more. The foundation prioritizes proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S., particularly from New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, fostering partnerships that advance art scholarship and cultural engagement.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Neely Foundation Grant supports various programs in the Phoenix East Valley, focusing on cultural arts, education, health services, and community welfare. It awards scholarships to students at major Arizona universities and community colleges. Nonprofit organizations exempt under IRS 501(c)(3) are eligible to apply for one-time grants to further their initiatives. This foundation continues the legacy of the Neely family, enriching the lives of local residents through diverse support.

The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust focuses on enhancing health and well-being in Maricopa County, Arizona, through strategic grantmaking in six key areas: arts and culture, children, education, healthcare, older adults, and religious organizations. By collaborating with local nonprofits, the Trust aims to strengthen community support and leadership, ensuring that marginalized populations have access to vital services and opportunities that foster inclusion and development.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation offers Special Project Funding to support innovative initiatives in the arts, particularly in under-resourced areas. This grant encourages collaborative projects that enhance community engagement and education, focusing on art exhibitions and scholarships in the greater Texas Panhandle. By fostering leadership and creativity, the Foundation aims to empower individuals and organizations to make a lasting impact in the fields of art and art history.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

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

The APS Community Impact Grants aim to address diverse community needs across Arizona through support for education, small business, arts, human services, environment, and community development. By focusing on under-resourced populations, these grants foster inclusivity and resilience. Nonprofits can apply annually for funding, with additional consideration for projects that enhance community engagement and quality of life. This initiative highlights APS's commitment to empowering local organizations to create a positive impact in their communities.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Bisbee Foundation Historic Preservation Grants aim to support nonprofit organizations and for-profit entities in preserving Bisbee's historical and cultural heritage. Grants require a one-to-one match with non-public funds and necessitate detailed project evidence, including funding assurances and architectural estimates. Eligible applicants must demonstrate nonprofit status and provide documentation of historic significance. The foundation emphasizes the importance of maintaining Bisbee's unique architectural and environmental legacy, making it a vital resource for community enrichment.

The Summer Youth Program Fund Grant aims to enhance summer programming for Maricopa County youth, providing essential financial support to organizations serving economically disadvantaged youth. Funded by local collaborators, this initiative focuses on promoting personal development and healthy lifestyle activities, while simplifying the grant application process for nonprofits. Organizations can request funding ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, with a total of approximately $615,000 available for distribution. This grant encourages creative programming that addresses childhood obesity and fosters community engagement.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Community Foundation of Yavapai Grant, managed by the Arizona Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Yavapai County. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 are available to 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and tribal entities that benefit the local community in various fields, including animal welfare, children’s services, environmental initiatives, and healthcare. Applicants must comply with non-discrimination policies and ensure their projects serve residents within the county.

The Fiesta Events: Spirit of the Fiesta Bowl Grant aims to support nonprofits that align with the mission of promoting youth, sports, and education. Fiesta Bowl Charities seeks partnerships to enhance community success through its bowl games and various events. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including volunteer commitments and branding requirements to foster collaboration and visibility for funded initiatives.

The Bisbee Foundation Berry Family Environmental Fund, an initiative of the Arizona Community Foundation, aims to support projects enhancing the natural environment in Bisbee. This grant encourages community involvement through initiatives like landscape enhancement, water harvesting, and conservation efforts. The fund, inspired by the Berry siblings' respect for nature, seeks to preserve Bisbee's unique environmental heritage while fostering community engagement in ecological projects.

The Bisbee Foundation, part of the Arizona Community Foundation, supports non-profit organizations through General Operating Grants aimed at enhancing the unique historical and cultural qualities of Bisbee. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and a two-year programming history. Grants require matching funds and are intended for operational support rather than construction or travel. The foundation focuses on preserving Bisbee's artistic heritage, ensuring its vibrant community continues to thrive.

The Bisbee Foundation Project Grants support non-profit organizations in Arizona, focusing on arts, humanities, education, and historic preservation. Grants are available on a matching basis for projects that enhance Bisbee's cultural heritage. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and have a two-year programming history. Funding cannot exceed 20% of the organization's budget, and recipients must submit completion reports to qualify for future grants. The program emphasizes collaboration and community engagement.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The AZ Arts Festival Grant, provided by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, supports diverse arts and culture festivals in Arizona. Grants are available for in-person, virtual, or hybrid events that emphasize artistic expression and community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local government entities, and arts agencies. Festivals must span at least two weekends and feature curated programming. Ineligible activities include standalone productions and projects with religious or political purposes.

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.

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.

The Arizona Community Foundation of Flagstaff, established in 1987, provides vital funding to enhance the quality of life for Flagstaff residents through various competitive grant programs. These grants support local nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups across multiple fields, including education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration with grant applicants, aiming to empower them to deliver high-quality services and programs that directly benefit the community.

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Our Mission: Lead, serve, and collaborate to mobilize enduring philanthropy for a better Arizona.

Arizona Public Service (APS) Grant

Since 2001, APS has partnered with Arizona Community Foundation to provide funding to qualified nonprofit agencies that support growth and community needs in the west valley. Agencies eligible for funding must be nonprofit organizations with at least 3 years of continued operation serving residents in the geographical area: North to Bell Road (extend boundary line west when Bell Road ends), West to 459th Avenue, South to Estrella/Gillespie Dam, and East to 19th Avenue.

Statement of Purpose

Through an open, competitive cycle the APS funds will benefit & support eligible nonprofits through grants in the areas of arts & culture, community development, education, environment, and human services.

In addition, the APS Fund encourages and supports projects that meet the following criteria:

• serve a variety of ethnic, economic or cultural backgrounds
• include new or creative solutions to problems or issues
• involve volunteers and in-kind gifts that demonstrate community involvement
• foster cooperative efforts between organizations

The Harry F. Dise Grant, managed by the Harry F. Dise Charitable Foundation, supports charitable organizations in Prescott, Arizona, focusing on the preservation of historical landmarks and objects. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The foundation prioritizes areas such as animal welfare, arts and culture, civic activities, community development, education, environment, health research, social services, and religious activities. Note that individual applications are not accepted.