The City of Providence's Department of Art, Culture + Tourism (ACT) offers the Project Fund to support arts and cultural projects in Providence. This funding opportunity seeks to advance access, foster cultural equity, promote change and transformation, and demonstrate significant community impact. The Project Fund awards range from $1,500 to $4,000 and supports projects occurring within specific timeframes: from July 1 to December 31, and from January 1 to June 30 of the following year. There are two application cycles annually, with deadlines of March 15 for the first cycle and October 15 for the second cycle. Applicants may apply for both rounds but are limited to one award per year.
The Project Fund is open to nonprofit organizations located in Providence with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Individual artists or unincorporated culture-brokers may apply with a fiscal sponsor. The fund supports a wide range of project expenses, including production, presentation, exhibition of art, and administrative expenses necessary for the execution of the project. However, the fund does not cover construction or capital expenses, deficit reduction, fundraising activities, or expenses incurred outside the fiscal year the funds are awarded.
Applicants are encouraged to consult with ACT staff before submitting their applications to discuss the feasibility and alignment of their proposals with ACT's goals. The Project Fund prioritizes proposals that reflect the five guiding principles: access, cultural equity, change and transformation, responsiveness, and impact. Additionally, projects that promote Providence as a cultural destination and engage non-local tourists are given special consideration.
Applications must be submitted through ACT's online portal or in writing to the Department of Art, Culture + Tourism. All materials should be complete and signed for the application to be considered. Review criteria for funding include the clarity and feasibility of the project, the alignment with ACT’s priorities, and the potential impact of the project on the community. Applicants must also submit a detailed budget and, optionally, supporting materials like resumes, plans, and letters of support.
Funding decisions are made by a review panel, with awards typically announced within 12 weeks of the application deadline. Applicants are responsible for ensuring their projects are accessible to people with disabilities. Additionally, all recipients must submit a final report within 60 days of project completion.
