2027 Artists with Disabilities Access Program - Individuals

The Artists with Disabilities Access Program (ADAP), managed by the Ohio Arts Council, is a state-funded initiative that supports individual artists with disabilities in Ohio. This program acknowledges the vital role that creative expression plays in cultivating diverse and inclusive communities and aims to provide the financial resources needed for artists to advance their professional careers. The ADAP program underscores the council's commitment to accessibility, equity, and career development within the arts sector. ADAP grants are awarded at two distinct levels: emerging artists may receive a fixed award of $500, while professional artists can be awarded up to $2,500. A cash match is not required, and awards generally meet the full requested amount. Allowable uses of grant funds include professional development activities such as workshops, conferences, fellowships, and residencies, as well as career advancement efforts like producing marketing materials, purchasing equipment (up to $1,500), or securing exhibition or performance opportunities. Funds may not be used for day-to-day business operations, duplication of prior work, or out-of-state travel for exhibitions or performances. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, reside in Ohio for at least one year prior to the September 1 deadline, and remain residents throughout the grant period. They must have exhibited, published, or performed their work in the last three years and meet the ADA definition of a person with a disability. Students pursuing high school, undergraduate, or graduate degrees are ineligible, as are individuals applying concurrently for other Artist Opportunities or those recently awarded an Individual Excellence Award (within five years). The application is submitted electronically through the ARTIE system. Applicants are encouraged to contact the program coordinator for assistance or accommodation. Applications should provide comprehensive responses to narrative questions, supported by relevant documentation. Upon award acceptance, grantees receive an initial payment of 50% of the grant total, with the remaining funds disbursed after submission and approval of a final report. Evaluation is conducted by a panel of professionals and community members using four criteria: Program Quality, Community Engagement, Defining and Measuring Success, and Resource Management. Each application can earn up to 60 points based on these categories. Panel meetings are publicly accessible via video conferencing. The Ohio Arts Council Board makes final funding decisions based on panel scores and staff recommendations. The program operates on a biannual application cycle. The primary deadline is May 1 each year for projects taking place between July 1 and the following June 30. If funds remain, a secondary deadline is November 1 for projects scheduled from January 1 to June 30. Applications open on November 1 and September 1, respectively, and award announcements are made in August and February. All grant agreements and final reports must be submitted by the stated deadlines to ensure eligibility for future funding.

Applicants should provide thorough narrative responses to help panelists understand how the grant will advance their career. Strong alignment with review criteria enhances competitiveness.