StartUp Program Grants

The StartUp Program, administered by the Delaware Division of the Arts (DDOA), is designed to support the growth and sustainability of emerging arts organizations in Delaware. The initiative aims to build management capacity and provide modest financial support for operating expenses. It also serves as a gateway to other grant opportunities within DDOA, such as the General Operating Support (GOS), Education Resource, and Arts Stabilization Fund grants. To be eligible, organizations must be based and chartered in Delaware, operate as a nonprofit under IRS Sections 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 509(a), and must have provided continuous public arts programming for at least two years. Additional requirements include having a functioning board of directors and demonstrating annual operating income above $16,000. Participation in the StartUp Program begins with the submission of a Letter of Intent via the smARTDE portal by January 15, 2026. If approved, applicants are invited to submit a full application by March 2, 2026. The application process requires detailed organizational information, including a narrative response, a board and staff contact list, financial records, meeting minutes, and up to three support materials. Board engagement is critical; organizations must present the program at a board meeting and include the related minutes indicating an affirmative vote to participate. Grant awards consist of up to $2,500 in operating support and include access to technical assistance and training delivered by the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement (DANA). Organizations work with a Standards for Excellence® Licensed Consultant to receive customized training in nonprofit management practices. The program covers areas such as governance, financial management, fundraising, and public engagement. DANA continues to support grantees beyond the training phase to ensure sustainable development. StartUp funding may cover various operational costs, including salaries, artist fees, marketing, supplies, and professional development. However, expenditures on capital improvements, fundraising campaigns, activities outside Delaware, lobbying, and scholarships are ineligible. The grant requires a 1:1 cash match, which must not be sourced from the National Endowment for the Arts, though other federal funds may be acceptable. Evaluation of applications is conducted by a review panel using criteria such as artistic quality, community service, and organizational management, with each category weighted accordingly. Applications are reviewed in spring 2026, with funding decisions announced after July 1, 2026. The grant period runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027, and final reports are due by September 30, 2027, through the smARTDE portal. Compliance with reporting and public acknowledgment requirements is mandatory. This grant is issued on an annual cycle. The next expected application period will follow a similar timeline, with Letters of Intent likely due in January 2027 and full applications in March 2027. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact DDOA early in the process to ensure eligibility and compliance with program requirements.

Engage board early and contact DDOA before submitting LOI; applications missing required board approvals or final reports may be disqualified.