VA250 Grants

The Virginia250 grants, offered by Virginia Humanities, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and Virginia Tourism, aim to support localities in developing arts experiences, events, programs, and content in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. This initiative aligns with the broader mission of these organizations to promote cultural understanding, heritage, and tourism within Virginia. The grant program seeks to leverage the historical significance of the 250th commemoration as a backdrop for artistic expression and community engagement across the state. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are diverse, including non-profits established as 501(c)(3) organizations, 501(c)(3) institutions of higher education, other IRS-designated not-for-profit organizations, tribal nations recognized by Virginia and/or the U.S. federal government, and local committees and partners of local VA250 Committees. The program prioritizes inclusive participation, ensuring that tribal nations not recognized by the state or federal government can still apply through an eligible fiscal sponsor. This broad eligibility criteria reflects a strategic priority to engage a wide array of community stakeholders in the commemoration efforts. The primary focus of the grants is to fund projects that offer arts experiences, events, programs, and content directly tied to the 250th commemoration. Applicants can apply for up to $10,000, with a required 1:1 match, indicating an emphasis on shared investment and community partnership. The funding, managed as subawards through the University of Virginia and paid on a reimbursable basis, suggests a commitment to accountability and careful financial stewardship. The project period from August 1, 2024, to August 1, 2025, provides a clear timeline for implementation and impact. The expected outcomes include the successful development and execution of arts-focused commemorative activities across Virginia. Measurable results would likely encompass the number of arts projects funded, the number of localities engaged, the reach of these events (e.g., attendance figures), and the types of artistic content created. The underlying theory of change is that by supporting local arts initiatives tied to a significant historical event, the grants will foster a deeper appreciation for Virginia's heritage, stimulate cultural tourism, and strengthen community bonds through shared experiences. This approach aims to create lasting cultural and economic benefits throughout the state.