Arts ADA Accessibility Reimbursement Program

The Arts ADA Accessibility Reimbursement Program is an initiative administered by the Oregon Arts Commission, a state-level agency under Business Oregon. The Commission's broader mission is to enhance the quality of life for all Oregonians through the arts by promoting creativity, leadership, and economic vitality. This program is designed to support Oregon-based arts nonprofits in meeting their legal and ethical obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 by reimbursing specific expenses related to accessibility services. The program aims to ensure that arts organizations make their offerings accessible to all individuals, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive ability. Accessibility, in this context, is defined as the provision of reasonable accommodations or modifications necessary for equal opportunity to engage in arts programs. Eligible expenses may include—but are not limited to—costs for American Sign Language interpretation, captioning, audio description, accessible materials, or equipment. The overarching goals of the program include offsetting direct expenses for these services, expanding public access for individuals with disabilities, encouraging compliance with federal ADA regulations, and promoting best practices for accessibility across Oregon’s arts sector. Funding is limited and competitive, with awards ranging from $200 to $1,000. The reimbursement percentage is determined by the organization’s operating budget: organizations with total cash operating expenses of $150,000 or less may be reimbursed at 100% of the eligible costs (up to the $1,000 cap), while those with budgets above this threshold are eligible for 50% reimbursement, also up to $1,000. Each organization may submit up to two reimbursement requests per fiscal year, and expenses must be submitted within 190 days of service provision. The funding cannot be used for accessibility services delivered more than 190 days before application submission, nor for general fundraising events, services outside Oregon, tuition assistance, or scholarships for degree-granting programs. The application process is straightforward and fully online. Applicants must use the Oregon Arts Commission’s grant portal to submit their request. Required application materials include a description of the accommodation or modification, provider details including cost, evidence of outreach to the disability community, and proof of payment aligning with the requested reimbursement amount. Applicants are also required to confirm their compliance with the ADA and a wide range of non-discrimination statutes. All applications are reviewed by Commission staff for eligibility, completeness, and compliance. Awards are approved on a rolling basis and are subject to the availability of program funds. Review criteria include the appropriateness of the accommodation and the level of engagement with the disability community. While funding decisions are final, the Commission allows appeals in cases where procedural errors may have occurred, and will consider written appeals submitted within designated timelines. For support, applicants are encouraged to contact Kat Bell, the Grants Officer, by email at [email protected] or phone at 971-304-5044. Spanish-speaking applicants may reach out to Liora Sponko at [email protected] or 971-345-1641. The Commission also offers application materials in alternate formats upon request. This program remains open year-round, with applications accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted no later than 190 days after the access service was provided.

Emphasize appropriateness of accommodation and active engagement with the disability community.