Arts in Neighborhoods Community Event Mini-Grant

The Fund for the Arts offers the Arts in Neighborhoods Community Event Mini-Grants to support local creative events that engage diverse communities in the Greater Louisville region. This initiative is designed to assist artists, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and informal groups in creating free, public, arts-focused events. These gatherings aim to deepen community connections, celebrate local culture, and provide inclusive access to artistic experiences across neighborhoods and identity-based groups. Eligible applicants include individuals, organizations, and community-based groups located in Bullitt, Jefferson, Oldham, and Shelby counties in Kentucky, as well as Clark, Floyd, and Harrison counties in Indiana. Applicants do not need to have tax-exempt status. Community-based applicants are encouraged to partner with artists or arts organizations, and likewise, arts applicants are encouraged to partner with community-based individuals or entities. However, applicants that represent both community and arts components are not required to have an external partner. Partnerships are formalized through a required Statement of Commitment letter outlining roles and contributions. Grants range from $500 to $5,000. Requests up to $2,000 do not require a match. A 1:1 match is required for all funds requested above $2,000, which may be fulfilled via cash or in-kind contributions such as donated services, venues, or materials. The funding must be used for in-person events that incorporate artistic elements such as performances, exhibits, culinary arts, or participatory arts experiences. Events must be free and open to the public, and take place in a neighborhood or community within the eligible counties. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis within defined seasonal cycles (Fall/Winter, Winter/Spring, Spring/Summer, Summer/Fall). For example, applications received by July 3 are eligible for the Fall/Winter cycle with events scheduled for September through February. All awarded events must be executed during the assigned grant period. Applicants may only receive one grant per year and must wait for three cycles before reapplying. Prior grantees must be in compliance with all reporting requirements. The application process involves five main sections: contact information, event description, attachments (such as partner letters or nonprofit status), budget details, and demographic information. A detailed budget template is recommended but not required. Applicants are asked to describe the event, the roles of partners, applicant capacity, and the anticipated impact on the community. Applicants must also report on community demographics and how event leadership reflects or is embedded in the prioritized community. Applications are reviewed by a diverse panel of community volunteers using a standardized scoring rubric that considers the artistic and community relevance of the event, feasibility of the budget, applicant and partner investment, and alignment with the Fund for the Arts’ mission. Awardees must include the Fund for the Arts logo in promotional materials and submit a final report documenting attendance, artist engagement, and impact stories. Support and guidance are available through weekly virtual office hours hosted by the Fund for the Arts’ Community Investment & Support team.

Clearly describe arts and community components, include a strong partner if applicable, and provide complete budget and demographic info. Start early to avoid tech issues.