America250 Grant Program

The America250 Grant Program, administered by the Wisconsin Arts Board (WAB), is designed to support arts-focused initiatives commemorating the United States' upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026. This funding opportunity is part of the broader FY2027 Creative Communities Grant Program and is supported by resources from the National Endowment for the Arts. A total of 20 grants will be awarded through this opportunity, each supporting projects that celebrate the nation's creative and cultural heritage. Eligible applicants include small to mid-sized nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations located within Wisconsin. To qualify, small organizations must have annual operating budgets under $225,000, while mid-sized organizations must be under $2 million. Projects must center around the arts—whether visual, performance-based, multimedia, or literary—and honor the semiquincentennial through new or enhanced programming. Examples include recognizing historic or contemporary American artists or developing arts education efforts tied to the milestone. The grant award is $2,500 and requires a 1:1 match by the applicant, with at least half of the match comprising cash contributions. The grant-funded activities must take place between April 1 and December 30, 2026. A detailed budget reflecting all income sources and expenses, including the required match, must be submitted as part of the application. The application portal opens on November 3, 2025. Applicants must use WAB’s SmartSimple platform. New applicants must first register online and activate their user credentials promptly. Returning users can log in and update their organizational profiles. The application process involves completing multiple tabs, including Applicant Information, Organizational Profile, and Project Details. The project narrative, limited to 450 words, must address the project's description, purpose, involved individuals, and timeline. A separate project budget document must also be emailed to the Arts Board. The deadline to apply is February 18, 2026. Grant decisions will be made on March 17, 2026, followed by contract issuance on March 19, 2026. Recipients must submit signed contracts and copies of letters to their legislators by April 1, 2026—the earliest date for beginning project activities. Grant funds will be distributed by May 1, 2026, and all project activities must conclude by December 30, 2026. Final reports are due January 30, 2027. For assistance, applicants may contact the Wisconsin Arts Board at artsboard@wisconsin.gov or call 608-266-0190. The program reflects a focused commitment to community, creativity, and historical reflection through the arts as part of the America250 initiative.

Ensure budget balances; narrative must not exceed 450 words; check America250 checkbox and apply under Local Arts.