The America 250 Alaska Grant Program is administered by the Alaska State Council on the Arts (ASCA) in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the State of Alaska. This program funds community-based arts projects that commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. The grants are designed to celebrate this milestone by supporting artistic and educational initiatives that explore American history through an Alaskan lens.
Eligible applicants include Alaska-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, units of state, local, or tribal governments, public school districts, and nonprofit private schools. Organizations must have a minimum annual operating budget of $50,000 and be in good standing with both the IRS and the State of Alaska. Direct grants to individuals are not permitted.
Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000. All proposed projects must have a robust arts-based component and must meaningfully engage artists or culture bearers in project design and execution. Funded activities may be standalone commemorative events or may include a special America 250 component embedded within broader programming. ASCA encourages projects that align with one or more of the program goals: to commemorate, educate, or connect Alaskans through arts and culture.
Eligible expenses include staffing and artist fees, marketing, equipment rental, supplies, travel, and limited administrative costs. Capital expenditures over $5,000 and other excluded categories such as lobbying or entertainment are not allowed. Matching funds are not required.
The application period opens on November 1, 2025, and closes on December 1, 2025, at 4:30 PM AKT. Applications must be submitted through GoSmart, email, or delivered in person. Awards will be announced in late December 2025 or early January 2026. Supported projects must be completed by July 31, 2026, with final reports due by August 31, 2026.
Applications will be evaluated based on artistic merit and alignment with the goals of the America 250 initiative. Specific review criteria include project quality, community impact, artist involvement, feasibility, and connection to Alaska’s cultural narratives. Applicants are encouraged to contact ASCA staff for assistance with the application process or for feedback on project concepts.
Center artists and culture bearers in project planning. Clearly explain how the project honors the 250th anniversary. Ensure feasibility and alignment with program goals.
