NEA grants for arts projects

NEA Grants for Arts Projects

Deadlines are Feb. 12 and July 9

Guidelines and application materials for the National Endowment for the Arts’ principal grants category, Grants for Arts Projects, are now available. These grants support projects taking place in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. jurisdictions in 2027.

Application deadlines are Feb. 12 and July 9.

Activities funded through Grants for Arts Projects enable Americans throughout the nation to experience the arts, foster and celebrate America’s artistic heritage and cultural legacy, and benefit from arts education at all stages of life. The NEA also supports arts and health programs, including creative arts therapies, that advance the well-being of people and communities.

First-time and returning applicants are welcome to apply as well as organizations serving rural, urban, suburban, and tribal communities of all sizes, and a range of operating budgets.

To apply and learn more: Grants for Arts Projects Program Guidelines.

RISCA congratulates Mary Anne Carter for being named Chairman of the NEA

The U.S. Senate voted in December to confirm Mary Anne Carter as chairman of the NEA. Carter will lead the agency for a second time, expanding on her leadership with the NEA during Trump’s first Presidential term.

“I am once again deeply honored to serve as chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts,” said Carter. “I am committed to advancing the vision that the arts belong to all Americans, no matter who they are or where they live. The arts are essential to creating, innovating, healing, and recovery, and they provide vital economic stability to communities across the nation. I look forward to the many celebrations that will take place in 2026 in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, as well as to the agency’s continued research into the powerful role the arts play in healing—from illness to trauma to natural disasters.”

“The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies applauds the nomination of Mary Anne Carter to be the next chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. The NEA and state arts agencies share a vital federal-state partnership that expands access to the arts nationwide,” said Pam Breaux, President and CEO of NASAA. “The agency grew under Carter’s leadership from 2017–2021, investing in every Congressional district. She has proven to be an excellent steward of federal arts resources, supporting efforts that foster good health and well-being, strengthen communities, and preserve our heritage for future generations. NASAA and state arts agencies look forward to continuing this partnership, so every community is strengthened through the arts.”

Read more.

Reminder Rolling deadlines are between now and Jan. 31, 2026

The Rhode Island Semiquincentennial Commission (RI250) has launched a grant program to support vibrant, inclusive and collaborative public programming in honor of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

Open to two types of applicants:

• Local 250 Committees are officially designated or recognized by their municipal government or local governing body.
• Statewide Grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, including regional or statewide organizations, cultural institutions, educational institutions, or coalitions of multiple partners in which a 501(c)(3) nonprofit is the lead applicant.
• No more than $250,000 to be awarded in each round.

Learn more and to apply.