2025 Community Arts Grants Program

The Community Arts Grants Program is an initiative offered by the Hernando County Arts Council in Florida, aimed at supporting civic or cultural organizations that are recognized as non-profits or charitable groups. This program is designed to foster community involvement in the creative arts, encouraging residents to create, appreciate, support, participate in, or learn about various art forms within Hernando County. The grants are intended to enhance the cultural landscape of the area by funding projects that promote artistic expression and engagement. The primary purpose of the Community Arts Grants Program is to provide financial assistance to eligible organizations for projects that contribute to the arts in Hernando County. Organizations can apply for grants of up to $1,000, which are provided on a reimbursement basis. This means that applicants must initially cover the costs of their projects and will receive reimbursement after submitting a final report along with paid receipts. The grant period runs from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. Eligible projects for funding include public art installations such as murals and sculptures, art-focused events or performances, and art instruction programs. These projects should aim to engage the community and enhance the appreciation of the arts in the region. It is important to note that governmental entities, including schools, are not eligible for this funding, although schools can apply for separate Arts in Education Grants. To qualify for the grant, applicants must be non-profit or charitable organizations based in Hernando County that focus on education, art, civic, or cultural activities. The program prioritizes organizations that can demonstrate a commitment to promoting the arts and engaging the community. This grants program is not open to for-profit entities or governmental organizations, ensuring that the funding is directed towards community-driven initiatives. Submission requirements for the grant include a completed application form, which can be obtained from the Hernando County Arts Council's website. Applicants will need to provide detailed information about their proposed projects, including objectives, expected outcomes, and a budget. The application process may also include specific questions that assess the project's alignment with the program's goals. Evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on the project's potential impact on the community, the feasibility of the proposed activities, and the organization's capacity to successfully implement the project. The review process will consider how well the project aligns with the mission of promoting arts and culture in Hernando County. The deadline for submitting applications for the Community Arts Grants Program is October 6, 2024. Interested organizations should ensure that their applications are completed and submitted by this date to be considered for funding. For further information or assistance, applicants can contact the Hernando County Arts Council via email or phone.