America250 Mississippi Public Art Grant

The America250 Public Art Grant is a one-time funding initiative led by the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC), established in celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. This special opportunity is designed to honor Mississippi’s cultural and historical narratives through original, community-centered public artworks. With funding support from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Mississippi Legislature, the program allocates $100,000 in total across ten awards. The grants are strategically distributed to ensure regional equity, with each of Mississippi’s five geographic regions—The Gulf Coast, Capital-Rivers, The Pines, The Hills, and The Delta—receiving one $12,000 and one $8,000 award, dependent on the applicant's organizational budget. The grant aims to elevate public art as a tool for storytelling, placemaking, and civic dialogue, rooted in three core themes: “We the People: The American Ideal & Fundamental Rights,” “Power of People & Place: Mississippi in the American Story,” and “The Future of Mississippi: A World of Possibilities.” Projects must be original public artworks installed in spaces that are free and accessible to the public, reflecting meaningful community engagement and narrative authenticity. While MAC does not restrict artistic mediums, all projects must demonstrate intentional use of public space to facilitate dialogue and connection, adhering to ADA standards and community access principles. Eligible applicants include Mississippi-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental units such as schools, libraries, or municipal agencies. A key restriction is that organizations receiving $30,000 or more from MAC during FY26 are not eligible to apply. The grant also imposes a 1:1 match requirement: at least 10% of the total project cost must be a cash match, while the remaining 90% may be covered by in-kind contributions, excluding artist fees. No partial grants will be awarded, and all projects must account for the full MAC award and the required match in their budgets. Applications open on November 17, 2025, and close on January 15, 2026. The creation phase for funded artworks must occur between March 1 and June 30, 2026, though public presentation may take place after this period. The application process is fully online and is supplemented by optional resources including the Public Art Supplemental Guide, a Mini Glossary & FAQ, and three informational webinars led by MAC’s Special Initiatives Director, Simone Cottrell. Webinars are scheduled for December 11 (9 AM and 3 PM) and December 15 (11 AM), 2025, and will guide applicants through program nuances and the application process. Evaluation criteria emphasize artistic excellence, alignment with thematic intent, site-specific relevance, and community impact. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to consult directly with MAC staff for feedback and to ensure a strong fit between project design and grant objectives. Simone Cottrell serves as the primary point of contact for the initiative and is available via phone or email for consultations and guidance. Required reporting must be submitted by June 30, 2026, and awardees are obligated to attend a virtual workshop on project documentation and responsibilities.

Attend MAC webinar or book consultation for clarity and guidance. Ensure your proposal aligns with one of the three themes and includes authentic community engagement.