Arts Project Grants

The Nebraska Arts Council administers the Arts Project Grant program to support arts programming, productions, or events that are open to the general public. These grants are intended for projects that take place within a defined period of time and may encompass multiple components or performances. Eligible project types include exhibitions, performances, poetry readings, commissions and the development of new works, arts festivals, community murals, and ethnic heritage projects. Special consideration is given to projects supporting artists and cultural activities that broaden opportunities for underserved communities. The purpose of this grant is to encourage and facilitate the creation and presentation of the arts across Nebraska, strengthening community engagement and cultural vitality. Funding is available for discrete projects that foster public participation in the arts and contribute to the cultural landscape of the state. Each funded project must occur within the established grant period, ensuring that activities have a clear start and end date for accountability and impact assessment. The grant is open to nonprofit organizations incorporated in Nebraska that are federally tax-exempt, public agencies, and subdivisions of governmental agencies. PreK–12 accredited schools are not eligible for the Arts Project Grant and must instead apply through the Arts Learning Project or Artists in Schools/Communities grant categories. Additionally, any projects primarily targeting youth must apply through these alternative grant streams. Organizations and college or university departments may only apply for one Arts Project Grant or one Arts Learning Project Grant per deadline, not both. Entities receiving Basic Support Grant funding are not eligible to apply for an Arts Project Grant, although they may serve as a collaborating partner in another organization’s application. The Arts Project Grant program has two annual application cycles. For the spring deadline, applications are due March 15 for projects taking place between July 1 and June 30 of the following year. For the fall deadline, applications are due October 1 for projects occurring between January 1 and June 30 of the following year. These deadlines ensure applicants can align project planning and execution with the grant period. Applications must be submitted by the stated deadlines; late applications will not be considered. Award amounts range from $2,000 to $7,500. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide a cash match equal to the total amount of funding requested. This requirement ensures shared investment in the project’s success and sustainability. The number of awards available per cycle is not specified and may vary depending on available funds and the quality of applications. For application assistance, applicants can review the Arts Project Grant Guidelines available through the Nebraska Arts Council website. Additional inquiries can be directed to the Council’s office at 1004 Farnam Street, Lower Level, Omaha, NE 68102, by phone at (402) 595-2122. The Council also provides resources such as newsletters and arts-related announcements to keep the public informed about upcoming opportunities and events.