Arts in Parks Grant

The 2026 Arts in Parks (AiP) grant program is a partnership between the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture (OAC) and Seattle Parks and Recreation, designed to activate public spaces across Seattle through community-driven arts and cultural programming. Since 2016, this initiative has supported events that celebrate diversity, foster community engagement, and expand access to arts and culture in underserved and economically constrained areas of the city. This year’s application window is open from September 16 through October 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM Pacific. Eligible applicants include individuals, community groups, grassroots collectives, and nonprofit organizations residing in King County or unincorporated King County. Applicants must demonstrate experience presenting arts and culture-based programming in Seattle and must have a federal tax ID (SSN, ITIN, or EIN). Importantly, organizations are not required to have 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor. Projects must occur between May 1 and October 30, 2026, in an eligible Seattle park. Parks in Downtown or City Center, as well as those adjacent to community centers or designated playfields, are excluded from eligibility. Applicants may request funding amounts of $2,000, $4,000, $6,000, or $8,000. To qualify for the $8,000 level, returning grantees must offer at least 12 hours of public programming over a minimum of two days. Awarded funds may be used for artist fees, production costs, marketing, supplies, permits, and up to 10% for food. However, funding cannot be used for religious services, fundraising, prizes, or unrelated administrative costs. Awards are disbursed on a reimbursement basis following successful completion and submission of final reports. The application process is hosted online via Seattle’s FLUXX system. Draft application feedback is available by contacting Zach Frimmel, the Grants Project Manager, and three informational sessions are scheduled, including virtual and in-person options. All awardees must secure event liability insurance, obtain a Seattle business license and a Washington State UBI number, and publicly acknowledge the City’s support in project promotions. Selected projects are expected to adhere to OAC’s anti-racist funding policies and public benefit requirements. Applications are evaluated by a community panel using criteria such as alignment with Seattle Parks’ mission, community impact, engagement efforts, project feasibility, and whether programming is proposed for a preferred park location. Notifications of awards will be issued in February 2026, and projects must be completed by October 30, 2026. For assistance or accommodation in any language, applicants are encouraged to contact Zach Frimmel at (206) 963-9226 or Zach.Frimmel@seattle.gov.

Align with Seattle Parks’ mission. Use clear language and emphasize engagement with historically underserved communities. Only one application per year is allowed. Submit early and confirm receipt with staff.