Creative Asset Program

The Pennsylvania Creative Asset Program is a funding initiative administered by Pennsylvania Creative Industries, the rebranded flagship of the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. This state agency is committed to promoting the state's creative sector by enhancing visibility, stimulating economic growth, encouraging innovation, and supporting community vitality. In 2025, the Council adopted a strategic plan centered on empowering creatives and positioning Pennsylvania as a national leader in creative industries. The Creative Asset Program aligns directly with these priorities, providing targeted support for small- to mid-sized creative organizations that advance the sector's development. This program supports organizations that deliver services, products, or programming that contribute to Pennsylvania Creative Industries' five key strategic areas: Asset Development, Workforce Development, Community Development, Visibility, and Policy. These areas reflect a comprehensive strategy to cultivate infrastructure, talent, public engagement, and systemic support for the state's creative ecosystem. Eligible sectors include, but are not limited to, performing and visual arts, media and film production, design, crafts, advertising, architecture, publishing, music, and digital games. The program specifically targets non-profit creative organizations with an established operational history and annual revenue between $100,000 and $2 million. Applicants must be registered Pennsylvania nonprofit corporations in good standing with the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations. Organizations affiliated with higher education institutions, fiscally sponsored entities, and government or auxiliary groups are ineligible. Entities that previously applied for or received a Creative Sector Flex Fund (CSFF) grant for the 2025–2026 cycle are also restricted from applying during the current cycle. The grant provides non-matching funds ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 per organization, disbursed on a reimbursement basis. Applicants must cover eligible expenses upfront and submit documentation such as receipts and invoices for reimbursement. The application window for the 2026–2027 program opens on February 2, 2026, and closes on March 16, 2026. Grants will fund activities occurring between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. Applications must be submitted via the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Electronic Single Application (ESA) portal. Registration for a Keystone Login is required to access the system. Additionally, awardees must enroll in the ACH payment system to receive funds electronically. Missing attachments such as IRS determination letters or financial statements will disqualify applications. Applicants are required to address narrative questions focusing on their organizational mission and how they align with the program’s strategic focus areas. The review process includes evaluations of eligibility, financial stability (via IRS Form 990 and audit documents), completeness of submissions, and overall program fit. Funding decisions are finalized by the Council, typically during their July meeting. Reimbursement materials must be submitted within 30 days of the grant period's close, with a firm deadline of July 30, 2027. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in cancellation or termination of the grant award. For assistance with application content, the designated contacts include Ian Rosario ([email protected], 717-525-5548), Seth Poppy ([email protected], 717-787-1520), and Amy Gabriele ([email protected], 717-525-5547). For login or technical issues, applicants should contact the Enterprise eGrants Customer Service Center. Appeals to funding decisions must be submitted within ten business days following the award notification and will only be granted in cases of factual or procedural errors.

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