Artist Opportunity Grants 2026

The Artist Opportunity Grant (AOG), administered by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, provides financial support for individual artists residing in Arizona to pursue unique career-advancing opportunities. The Commission, a state agency established over 58 years ago, continues to serve as a leading advocate and resource for Arizona’s arts sector. Through grantmaking and programming, the Commission seeks to expand artistic access and equity throughout the state. The AOG is a key component of the Commission’s investment strategy in individual artist development across all disciplines and career stages. The Artist Opportunity Grant is designed to assist artists in undertaking activities that will introduce their work to new audiences, develop new skills, or strengthen their artistic careers through strategic investments. These grants are not intended to fund previous activities or recurring professional expenses but are focused on new or evolving opportunities that mark a significant step in the applicant’s creative trajectory. Applicants must articulate a clear connection between the opportunity and their current artistic practice, demonstrating how it aligns with their long-term professional goals. Eligible applicants include individual artists aged 18 and older who are residents of Arizona. Only individuals—not organizations—may apply, and applicants may only receive one AOG every two fiscal years. Additionally, individuals may not receive both an AOG and a Research & Development Grant from the Commission within the same fiscal year. The fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30 of the following year. Funds may be used for equipment purchases, travel, rentals, documentation, registration fees, or professional services, provided these expenses directly support the proposed opportunity and fall within the eligible grant period. Applications must be submitted through the SurveyMonkey Apply platform, where users can either type their narrative responses or upload MP3 audio files. Applicants will answer four key questions, including a description of the opportunity, explanation of how it supports their artistic goals, and next steps. Additionally, a timeline of proposed activities and relevant work samples are required. Supporting materials such as a resume-style experience list and a budget with justification for each item are also essential components. The grant amount requested must fall between $500 and $1,500. Submissions are reviewed based on four evaluation criteria: quality of the opportunity, potential impact, feasibility, and integrity. Panelists assess how well the opportunity fits with the applicant’s current and future artistic goals, whether the plan is viable within the timeline and budget, and if the applicant demonstrates inclusive and ethical practices. Artistic quality itself is not a criterion, but rather the relevance and alignment of submitted work samples with the proposal. Applications for Cycle B of the FY2026 round are due by October 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM. The grant supports activities occurring between December 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. Notifications for Cycle B awards will be issued the week of December 16, 2025, and the earliest possible funding date is March 9, 2026. Opportunities to learn more include applicant information sessions scheduled on August 21 and September 18, 2025. Contact Delia Ibañez at dibanez@azarts.gov or (602) 771-6531 for grant-related questions.

Applicants are encouraged to draft responses in a word processor, use clear and concise audio recordings if applicable, and attend the information session for guidance. Avoid promotional materials in work samples.