Inspire Olympia Impact Funding

Inspire Olympia’s Impact Funding opportunity supports cultural programs in Olympia that advance the arts, science, culture, or heritage through accessible and inclusive public programming. Designed as a one-year grant cycle, the 2026–2027 round offers funding to nonprofits that are based in or primarily serve the City of Olympia and its school district. The initiative is grounded in a citywide commitment to lowering participation barriers for youth and historically underserved communities, while fostering a vibrant, diverse cultural sector. Eligible applicants may apply for grants between $5,000 and $50,000, with a required one-to-one match from other funding sources or in-kind contributions. These funds are unrestricted but must be used for expenses directly tied to public programming offered between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027. Qualifying uses include program delivery, staffing, training, facilities, marketing, and accessibility accommodations. However, the funding cannot support commercial activity, political or religious promotion, general education outside Olympia Public Schools, or endowments. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits incorporated in Washington State or have a fiscal sponsor with an aligned mission. Applicants may be located outside city limits if their programming primarily serves Olympia residents or schools. To qualify, an organization must deliver at least one cultural program during the grant year and demonstrate mission alignment with Inspire Olympia’s goals of expanding public benefit and community access. Applications open on January 20, 2026, and close on March 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Submissions are processed online via the City of Olympia's Submittable platform. Staff support, workshops, and one-on-one guidance are available throughout the application window. Funding recommendations will be reviewed by a community panel and finalized by the Cultural Access Advisory Board, with notifications issued by June 1, 2026. Funded organizations will enter into a contract with the City of Olympia, identifying specific deliverables tied to public benefit outcomes. These deliverables may include events, workshops, exhibitions, or youth education programs. Payments are distributed in two or five phases, depending on the programming schedule, and require completion of reporting and invoicing aligned with program delivery. Required documentation includes a W9, City of Olympia business license, vendor registration, and insurance. Impact Funding places significant emphasis on equity and access. Applicants are expected to describe how their programs address barriers such as cost, transportation, language, disability access, and representation. Programming for youth, including both general education and programs in collaboration with Olympia Public Schools, is a priority. The application includes sections on organizational diversity, planning, evaluation, and partnerships, ensuring alignment with Inspire Olympia’s mission to support a visible, welcoming, and inclusive cultural landscape in Olympia.

Emphasize equity, realistic deliverables, strong community impact, and match-readiness.