Alaska State Council on the Arts - Career Opportunity Grants

The Career Opportunity Grants, administered by the Alaska State Council on the Arts, are intended to support professional artists in advancing their careers through financial assistance. These grants are designed to help artists participate in important in-state, national, or international opportunities that will enhance their professional development or visibility. The fund supports events such as seminars, programs, or travel that contribute to artistic growth and career progression. These grants provide short-term funding to enable artists to seize unique, time-sensitive opportunities that are not part of their routine work. The emphasis is on enabling artists to take advantage of significant professional prospects that require timely support. This includes but is not limited to travel expenses related to attending conferences, exhibitions, or residencies that are pivotal to an artist’s career. Eligible applicants for this program are professional individual artists. The funding is not intended to cover ongoing work or regular project expenses but is strictly for distinct career-advancing events. Artists may apply for grants ranging from $100 to $1,000, in increments of $100. The total amount awarded to any applicant will not exceed $1,000. Notably, first-time applicants are required to contact the Alaska State Council on the Arts prior to submitting their application. Applications for Career Opportunity Grants are accepted quarterly, with deadlines falling on June 1, September 1, December 1, and March 1. Funding decisions are made at the quarterly meetings of the Council Trustees immediately following each submission deadline. This schedule allows for regular opportunities throughout the year for artists to apply. For application assistance, artists can reach out to Patti Lillie at 907-269-7978 or via email at patti.lillie@alaska.gov. General inquiries may also be directed to the council’s main contact points: 907-269-6610, toll-free at 1-888-278-7424, or by email at asca.info@alaska.gov. The Council's office is located at 161 Klevin Street, Suite 102, Anchorage, AK 99508-1506. This grant initiative underscores the Alaska State Council on the Arts' commitment to bolstering the professional journeys of individual artists through accessible, needs-responsive funding mechanisms. Interested applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the council’s newsletter for updates and announcements regarding future opportunities.