Artistic Legacy Grant

The Artistic Legacy Grant (ALG) is a program of the San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) designed to recognize and uplift individual artists who have demonstrated long-term commitment to San Francisco’s diverse artistic and cultural landscape. The grant specifically supports San Francisco-based artists who have lived and practiced their craft in the city for at least 25 consecutive years. Through this initiative, the SFAC aims to preserve artistic legacies and celebrate the contributions of artists who have been vital members of their communities, particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds as defined by the 1993 Cultural Equity Endowment Legislation. Artists applying for the Artistic Legacy Grant must have a demonstrated history of engaging with San Francisco communities through their artistic practice. Applicants are expected to educate the broader public on the importance of their cultural or artistic genres and contribute to the continuity of these practices for future generations. Projects may include but are not limited to performances, exhibitions, community-based education, mentorship initiatives, or documentation efforts that reflect the applicant’s legacy and impact. The grant provides up to $100,000 in funding over a 25-month period. Projects funded through ALG must be implemented between July 1, 2026, and July 31, 2028. All applicants must be at least 18 years old and current residents of San Francisco with verifiable proof of continuous residency for the last 25 years. The program prioritizes artists who reflect San Francisco’s racial, ethnic, LGBTQ+, immigrant, and disability communities and whose work aligns with SFAC’s commitment to cultural equity. Funding may be used to support project-related expenses such as artist fees, production costs, space rental, materials, documentation, and promotional efforts. Funds may not be used for general operating support, debt service, political or religious programming, or projects occurring outside San Francisco. Grantees must comply with city contracting requirements, accessibility standards, and SFAC’s reporting obligations. Applications are reviewed through a competitive panel process based on artistic merit, community engagement, project feasibility, and alignment with equity goals. Required materials include a project narrative, resume, timeline, work samples, and letters of support. Technical assistance is available throughout the process. Applications are due by October 22, 2025 at 12:00 PM noon, and award notifications will follow in early 2026. For inquiries, applicants should contact Program Officer Jennifer Chu at jennifer.chu@sfgov.org or (415) 535-7305.

Contact SFAC staff early. Ensure residency history is well documented. Tailor narrative to highlight equity alignment.