Fast Track Arts Grant Program

The James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation offers the Fast Track Arts grant program to support small arts organizations across Oregon. The foundation, based in Portland, Oregon, is committed to funding arts programming and education with an emphasis on ensuring access for underserved communities. Their grants support the sustainability of arts organizations by providing unrestricted operating support, which allows organizations to apply funding to their core expenses rather than specific projects. This program particularly focuses on ensuring that organizations delivering artistic programming across various disciplines—including visual, performing, media, literary, or interdisciplinary arts—have the financial stability to thrive. The Fast Track Arts program is designed for organizations with annual operating expenses ranging from $25,000 to $499,999, excluding any in-kind contributions. To qualify for funding, applicants must demonstrate a sustained commitment to artistic work, education, or services within Oregon. The Miller Foundation prioritizes organizations whose missions are rooted specifically in the arts or arts education. However, small organizations with broader missions may also be eligible if more than 25% of their budgets are allocated to consistent and significant arts-related work. Applicants involved in K-12 arts education are given particular consideration, especially those that serve under-resourced youth, partner with public schools to provide otherwise unavailable arts programs, offer instruction by professional teaching artists, or provide culturally specific arts education. These criteria reflect the foundation’s belief in equitable access to comprehensive arts education for all children. The grants are awarded for operating support only, which may include costs such as artist or contractor fees, staff salaries, rent, utilities, technology, equipment, programming and performance costs, marketing, and general business expenses. Notably, expenses such as capital campaigns, permanently installed equipment, and debt repayment are not eligible for funding. The amount awarded is determined based on 4–7% of the applicant’s average operating expenses over the past three to four years, and the degree to which the organization aligns with the foundation’s priorities. The application process is designed to be accessible, with no set deadline and the ability to apply year-round. Applications are reviewed nine times annually, and funding decisions are typically communicated within six to eight weeks of submission. First-time or infrequent grantees may receive one-year grants, while organizations with a five-year or longer history with the foundation may be eligible for two-year grants. To begin the process, applicants must first create an account on the foundation’s grants portal and complete an eligibility quiz. If they qualify, they may then proceed with submitting an application. There is no published contact name, phone number, or email address, but the foundation’s physical address is 1905 SE 10th Avenue, Portland, OR 97214-4659. The website includes access to the grants portal and a media kit for additional guidance.