General Operating Support for Artists in Rhode Island

The General Operating Support for Artists (GOSA) program, administered by the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA), provides unrestricted, multi-year funding to Rhode Island artists to support the long-term development of their artistic practice. Rather than focusing on specific projects, this grant allows artists to define their own goals and use the funds in alignment with their personal artistic trajectory. GOSA awards support up to three new artists each year, with a total of nine grantees participating in the program at any given time. Awarded artists receive $6,000 annually for three years, totaling $18,000 in unrestricted funding. The grant can be used flexibly to support creative work, including purchasing materials, renting workspace, hiring collaborators, acquiring equipment or technology, documenting work, engaging in research or experimentation, and marketing. However, certain restrictions apply to how funds may be used, particularly those related to capital projects, fundraising, debt reduction, entertainment, or expenses tied to academic programs or religious services. Eligible applicants must be practicing artists residing in Rhode Island. Applicants must have lived in the state for at least two years at the time of application and must maintain Rhode Island residency throughout the three-year grant period. They must be at least 18 years old, be legal U.S. residents with a valid tax identification number, and must not be currently enrolled full-time in a degree-granting arts program or have previously received this specific grant. Artists from a wide range of disciplines are eligible, including visual arts, performance, writing, media, craft, and design. Applications are accepted annually through RISCA’s Foundant online system for individuals, beginning August 1 and closing October 1 at 11:59 p.m. Grant notifications are typically sent out by mid-December. If awarded, artists are required to register as a vendor through the state procurement system and submit a W-9. Annual reports are required each July 31 to receive the next year’s disbursement. Applications are reviewed in two phases: an eligibility screen and a panel review. The review panel evaluates applications based on artistic impact and growth, as well as artistic vibrancy and intention. Required materials include an artist bio or resume, artist statement, artistic work samples (up to 10 images, 15 minutes of video or audio, or 30 pages of writing), and a completed work sample list template. Applications are evaluated competitively, and awards are contingent upon continued funding from the Rhode Island General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. RISCA is committed to accessibility and inclusion in its grantmaking. Artists needing accommodations during the application process are encouraged to contact Seamus Hames, RISCA’s 504 Accessibility Coordinator, for assistance. Grantees are also required to credit RISCA in all related marketing and communications materials during the grant period.

Upload work samples to Google Drive with shared access; follow RISCA formatting guidelines; only one application per person per cycle.