JCS Fund Visual Arts and Music Mini-Grant Program

The JCS Arts, Health & Education Fund, administered through the DuPage Foundation, offers the Visual Arts and Music Mini-Grant Program to support local organizations serving DuPage County, Illinois. The goal of this mini-grant initiative is to enhance the cultural, artistic, and educational experiences of residents through high-quality arts programming. These grants are designed to help nonprofits and governmental agencies introduce or expand arts initiatives that build community engagement and highlight artistic talent. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and DuPage County governmental entities. Projects must primarily benefit DuPage County residents. An organization is considered eligible if 50% or more of its clients reside in DuPage County, if it operates physical facilities within the county, or if it has a clear record of DuPage-specific programming, budget allocation, and local board involvement. Each organization may only receive one mini-grant per calendar year, but this does not preclude them from applying for other grant programs such as the DuPage Foundation’s Community Impact or Arts DuPage grants. Grants are available in amounts ranging from $500 to $2,500. Funding is available on a rolling basis until all program funds are expended, with five submission deadlines set throughout 2025: March 14, April 30, June 30, August 31, and October 31. The program is not limited to one annual funding cycle; however, for event-based funding requests, applications must be submitted at least two months prior to the event date. Funding supports a range of visual arts and music activities. Qualifying visual arts projects may include exhibitions, pop-up galleries, murals, master classes, cultural heritage events, and programming for older adults. Music funding is restricted to general or instrumental music programs, especially those benefiting children. Applications are submitted through the DuPage Foundation’s online grant portal. The review process will continue until the designated program funds are depleted. Preference is given to organizations that have not previously received JCS Fund support. Evaluation criteria include program goals, potential community impact, the applicant’s artistic skill and experience, financial planning, and degree of community engagement. Applicants needing support or clarification may contact Laura Ernst at laura@dupagefoundation.org or 630-598-5295.

Applicants should submit early, especially for events, to ensure compliance with the two-month advance deadline rule.