Arts and Health Incubator Grant

The Arts and Health Incubator Grant (AHG-INC) is a one-time funding initiative offered by the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) for the fiscal year running from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. This grant is designed to support Rhode Island-based organizations and individual artists engaged in projects that leverage the arts to improve public health outcomes. The program is aligned with the RI 2030 Health Plan and focuses on addressing five key priorities: physical health and well-being, behavioral health, older adults and caregiving, healthcare system strengthening, and equity for underserved communities. Grantees will also take part in a Peer Learning Cohort aimed at fostering community, knowledge exchange, and collaborative learning across arts and health sectors. Eligible applicants include individual artists residing in Rhode Island for at least one year, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in the state, and groups fiscally sponsored by a Rhode Island-based nonprofit. For organizations not incorporated in Rhode Island, eligibility is extended to those that conduct the majority of their programming within the state and have a principal place of business registered with the Rhode Island Secretary of State. Fiscal sponsorship is permitted under strict conditions, including a formal agreement between the applicant and sponsor, with the sponsor assuming full responsibility for the administration and compliance of the grant. The AHG-INC Grant supports a variety of project types, including planning, capacity building, professional development, pilot initiatives, evaluations, and coalition building. These activities are expected to integrate the arts with health strategies, focusing on community engagement, inclusivity, and meaningful impact. Projects may not include capital improvements, debt reduction, fundraising events, clinical art activities, or any programming that is not publicly accessible or ADA compliant. Grant funds may not be used to support academic degree programs or regranting activities. The maximum award amount is $7,000 for organizations and $5,000 for individuals. Partial funding may be awarded but will not fall below 50% of the requested amount or $1,000, whichever is greater. All awards are contingent upon the availability of funding from the Rhode Island General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Final decisions are made on a competitive basis, with grant panelists evaluating proposals based on logistics, artistic vibrancy and impact, and the health benefits of the proposed project. Applicants are also required to credit RISCA in all related promotional materials if awarded. Applications will open on February 1, 2026, and must be submitted through RISCA’s Foundant online portal by the deadline of April 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Virtual application support and drop-in office hours will be available throughout February and March 2026. Grant notifications are expected in mid-June 2026. Funded projects must take place within the fiscal year (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027), and final reports are due by July 31, 2027. The Peer Learning Cohort is scheduled to convene twice, beginning with a kickoff event anticipated for September 2026. To apply, individuals and organizations must complete eligibility documentation and submit support materials, including a detailed project plan, budget, resumes or bios of project personnel, artistic work samples, and a testimonial. Applicants must clearly articulate how the arts will be used to support public health goals and must outline their plan for evaluating project success. RISCA prioritizes projects that engage underserved communities and promote access to meaningful cultural experiences across Rhode Island. For technical assistance or questions regarding eligibility, applicants can contact Anisa Raoof, Arts and Health Program Director and Grants Manager, at [email protected].

Clarify health goals alignment and demonstrate readiness to implement; ensure strong narrative for underserved engagement.