The Artist Support Grant is an initiative designed to provide direct assistance to professional artists residing in Eastern North Carolina, originally developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This regional program aims to help artists improve their artistic practice, expand their audience reach, and strengthen their business operations. Eligible artists include those living for at least one year in Edgecombe, Greene, Nash, Pitt, Wayne, or Wilson counties. The program accepts applications from individual artists and small, unincorporated groups working in disciplines such as music, dance, film, theater, visual arts, and literature.
This program is managed through regional consortia of local arts councils, with the Pitt County Arts Council at Emerge serving as the lead agency for Eastern North Carolina. The program is funded by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, and is supported by partner organizations including the Greene County Arts and Historical Society, Nash County Arts Council, Arts Council of Wayne County, and the Arts Council of Wilson.
Applicants may request between $500 and $1,000 for eligible expenses related to project creation, equipment purchases, professional development training, marketing and promotional activities, or travel related to exhibitions or conferences. Up to 50% of grant funds may be used for artist fees. Projects must occur between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025. Applications are due by October 4, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. and must be submitted online unless special arrangements are made in advance.
To apply, artists must submit a narrative, budget, résumé or bio, and work samples tailored to their discipline. Optional letters of recommendation may be included. All applicants must be at least 18 years old and not enrolled in a degree or certificate program. Past recipients must wait at least one cycle before reapplying in the same discipline. The review panel consists of arts professionals from relevant disciplines, advised by NC Arts Council staff.
Applicants are encouraged to be specific in their budget documentation and to demonstrate personal investment in their projects. The panel prioritizes strong work samples and feasible, well-articulated proposals. For assistance or questions, applicants may contact Holly Garriott, Executive Director of the Pitt County Arts Council at Emerge, via email at holly@pittcountyarts.org or by phone at 252-551-6947.
Be clear and professional; show personal investment; proofread all materials; ensure strong, relevant work samples; follow formatting guidelines.
