Wells Fargo Arts-In-Education Grant

The Wells Fargo Arts-In-Education Grant is a funding initiative supported by the Arts Council in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is designed to promote and expand access to high-quality arts education by connecting professional artists and arts organizations with elementary, middle, and high school students. This initiative seeks to spark creative and intellectual curiosity in young learners through engaging artistic programming conducted in school environments. While its primary reach includes public schools in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System, funding is also available to support activities in private and charter schools. The grant is funded by a collaboration of supporters, primarily the Arts Council, with additional backing from Wells Fargo, the Reynolds American Foundation, and the Forsyth County Government. These funders are committed to arts access and equity in education. As the largest arts education funder in the region, the Arts Council encourages programming that integrates with the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, ensuring that artistic activities enhance and align with academic outcomes. Eligible applicants include individual artists and arts or cultural organizations possessing a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN). However, schools themselves are not eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate both strong artistic credentials and experience in effectively working within classroom settings. Proposals should clearly outline the educational alignment and artistic merit of the programming, including specific objectives, planned activities, and anticipated student outcomes. In addition, applicants are expected to prepare instructional materials for teachers to reinforce the project goals and support the curriculum. Grant funds may be used to support a range of eligible expenses such as administrative costs, professional services (including teaching artists and consultants), program materials, supplies, and transportation for students. Projects conducted off-site are allowable, provided they meet curricular requirements and involve eligible student groups. However, funds may not be used for scholarships, and all spending must align with the activities and budget proposed in the application unless prior written approval is obtained from the Arts Council's Director of Community Impact & Programs. Applications for the 2025-2026 cycle are due by October 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The review process will take place in November, with award notifications issued in December 2025. Funded projects should be implemented between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026, with a final report due by the end of the project period. The program appears to operate on an annual cycle. For further information or questions regarding the application process, applicants may contact Cécile Boynton, the Community Grants and Services Manager, via email at [email protected] or by phone at (336) 747-1412.

Emphasize alignment with NC Standard Course of Study and ability to communicate effectively in educational settings.