John T. & Elizabeth C. Adams Arts Fund

The John T. & Elizabeth C. Adams Arts Fund is a program managed through the Boreal Waters Community Foundation and is designed to enrich the cultural life of local communities by supporting high-quality artistic programs. The fund emphasizes bringing guest artists and performers from outside the region to collaborate with local arts organizations, expanding artistic offerings and elevating public access to innovative and meaningful cultural experiences. The fund provides support for special artistic projects that go beyond the routine programming of local arts organizations. Eligible uses of funding include performances by guest artists not part of a regular series, master classes or workshops hosted by visiting performers, artist residencies, conferences, and other distinctive artistic presentations. Each supported project is required to include at least one public performance or exhibition. The intent is to engage a broad audience, with strong consideration given to accessibility and logistical ease for attendees, such as parking availability. Grants may cover both direct and indirect costs that are specific to the project. However, general operating costs, including salaries, routine advertising, and fundraising expenses, are not eligible. Scholarships are also excluded from funding eligibility. Applicants must serve communities located within the Boreal Waters Community Foundation Service Area. Eligible applicants must be organizations that qualify under one of the following IRS-recognized statuses: 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Section 170(c)(1) public entity such as a government agency or school, Section 7871 tribal government, a church, or an organization working through a qualified fiscal sponsor. The fund is intended to support arts organizations or entities collaborating with the arts in ways that align with the fund's cultural and community-driven mission. The Fall 2025 grant cycle begins on August 12, 2025, and ends on September 15, 2025. There is an optional Zoom information session on August 12 for interested applicants. Applications will be reviewed between September 24 and October 27, 2025, with decisions announced on November 19, and grant payments issued by November 26. The grant period begins on or after January 1, 2026, and extends for up to 12 months. Applicants are encouraged to contact Kursula Harris, Senior Community Impact Associate, at kursula@borealwaters.org with any questions regarding eligibility, application requirements, or project fit.

Emphasize accessibility and broad audience engagement; contact program staff for guidance on eligible projects.