KAC Visiting Artists Grant Program

The Kansas Arts Commission (KAC), under the Department of Commerce, administers the Visiting Artists Grant Program to enhance community engagement and promote access to high-quality arts programming throughout the state. This grant supports eligible organizations in bringing professional artists from outside their local community—defined as at least 60 miles away—for exhibitions, performances, and interactive activities that are open to the general public. These initiatives are intended to increase appreciation of the arts, foster educational opportunities, and strengthen community development through arts integration. This program supports both performing and non-performing arts disciplines. Organizations may use funds to integrate an arts discipline into non-arts content, interpret artistic presentations, and further community development goals. Complementary educational or community engagement activities are required and should include direct interaction between the artist and the community or students. Examples include lectures, workshops, master classes, or creative public engagement formats. Special emphasis is placed on innovative approaches to reach underserved populations, including those with limited access due to geography, disability, income, or age. The program operates in two tracks: grants for artists on the Kansas Touring Roster, accepted on a rolling basis with a 60-day advance application rule, and grants for non-roster artists, accepted during scheduled grant cycles. Eligible applicants include Kansas-based 501(c)(3) non-profits, public entities such as government agencies, school districts, public colleges and universities, and federally recognized tribal governments. Applicants must have a minimum of one year of arts programming and meet all state registration and good standing requirements. Awards may not exceed $8,500 for roster artists or $7,500 for non-roster artists. All applicants are required to match the grant amount dollar-for-dollar using non-state and non-federal sources. Exceptions exist for Rural Opportunity Zone counties, where up to 100% of the match may be in-kind. Matching contributions can include cash, goods, or services. Only allowable expenses as defined by federal guidelines may be included in the proposal budget. Prohibited costs include general organizational operating costs, scholarships, lobbying, construction, and food or alcoholic beverages. Applications must be submitted online via Submittable. After a staff eligibility review, applications undergo panel review based on four criteria: overall project excellence, artistic merit, community impact and engagement, and community integration. The scoring process is transparent and includes a public panel meeting. Following the panel, the Kansas Arts Commission finalizes recommendations, which are then approved by the Department of Commerce. All awards are issued on a cost-reimbursement basis, requiring submission of invoices and proof of matching funds. Final reports are due by July 30, 2025. Grantees must acknowledge KAC and NEA support in all promotional materials. Fiscal sponsorship is allowed under strict conditions, and a detailed agreement between the fiscal agent and project producer is mandatory. For questions or assistance, applicants are directed to the Kansas Arts Commission through the online portal or contact information listed in the program guidelines.