smART ventures Grant Program

smART ventures is a flexible small awards program based in Seattle designed to encourage innovative ideas, foster community impact, and broaden access to the arts and culture for individuals and groups who may not be served by other funding programs. The initiative operates under the philosophy that small investments can catalyze significant outcomes. The program focuses particularly on widening participation among diverse and underserved communities, helping to foster a more inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape within the city. The program offers funding support ranging from $500 to $1,000 for projects, events, and opportunities that have potential arts or cultural impact within Seattle. The funding is available to individuals, groups, organizations, or communities of interest who require start-up or final investment funds to realize their ideas. Funded events must be open to the public and occur within the city limits of Seattle. However, funds may not be used for food and drink, equipment purchases, religious services, fundraising activities, or any activities occurring before a funding contract is awarded. Eligible applicants include individuals or groups, including youth and older adults, who are pursuing a unique project, opportunity, or event involving arts and culture and are not currently funded by the Office of Arts & Culture. Organizations may also apply if they are emerging (less than three years old), not currently funded by the office, grassroots in nature, or business organizations. Practicing artists who have never received a CityArtist grant from the office are also eligible. All applicants must first consult with a project manager to discuss their idea, ensure their project aligns with the program’s objectives, and receive guidance on creating a competitive proposal. Applications must then be submitted as a completed and signed copy of the smART ventures application form. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with reviews conducted monthly. There is no set deadline for submission, but applicants are advised to submit their proposals at least one month before their project or event date to accommodate review and contracting timelines. A response to the application will be provided within 45 days of submission. Projects funded through the program are expected to align with at least one of the following goals: expanding audiences by reaching underserved artists or communities; fostering innovation by providing new or unique perspectives on arts and culture; and promoting community impact by addressing community needs or building connections through the arts. Applications are evaluated based on criteria such as public access and outreach, artistic potential demonstrated through supporting materials, and the feasibility of the proposed project including the plan, budget, and timeline. If selected for funding, recipients will be required to sign a Letter of Agreement with the City of Seattle to complete the project within one year, possess a Social Security number or federal tax identification number, and obtain a City of Seattle business license if necessary. Insurance may be required for event-based projects. Recipients must also provide proper credit to the City of Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, and submit a signed invoice and a brief final project report to receive payment, which is made post-project completion. Recipients may reapply for funding after twelve months from the end date of a previously funded project but may not receive funding for the same project through multiple Office of Arts & Culture programs or be funded more than twice through the smART ventures program. Interested applicants should contact Kristi Woo via email at Kristi.Woo@seattle.gov or by phone at (206) 727-8671 to initiate the process. Interpretation services, including American Sign Language, are available upon request. Applicants are encouraged to start the process well in advance—at least two months prior to their intended project start or event date.