Youth Arts Council Grant

The Arizona Commission on the Arts, an agency of the State of Arizona, has opened applications for the 2025-26 AZ Youth Arts Council. This initiative seeks to involve Arizona youth in arts policy-making and program development, ensuring their voices are reflected in decisions and activities that shape arts access and engagement across the state. Since its establishment in 2019, the council has functioned as an advisory group that provides insights and support for youth-centric grant programs and initiatives. The AZ Youth Arts Council is specifically aimed at young creatives between the ages of 14 and 19 who live in Arizona. Applicants must have an interest in the arts and be community-minded. The Arts Commission is particularly interested in assembling a diverse council representing all 15 Arizona counties, promoting geographic parity and inclusive representation across the state. Members of the council are expected to attend monthly online meetings held via Zoom from October 2025 through May 2026. Their responsibilities will include advising on arts-related policies, helping to administer the Creative Youth Grant, and reviewing arts and culture services and programs affecting youth in their communities. Additionally, members will engage in creative projects that showcase and promote local arts. Council members will receive a stipend of up to $800 for their participation. Applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified the week of August 25, 2025, and the council will commence its activities in October. To apply, individuals should visit https://azarts.gov/azyac/ and complete the application form, which includes questions about their artistic identity, local arts environment, motivations for joining the council, and ideas for arts funding. Applicants are required to provide personal and contact details, including pronouns, birthdate, address, and demographic information. While demographic responses will not be considered during the application review, they help the Commission assess the equity and reach of its programs. The application process requires thoughtful, specific answers to several open-ended questions. Once submitted, the application cannot be edited, and applicants will receive a confirmation email. The Arizona Commission on the Arts is located at 417 West Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003-1326. For questions or more information, applicants can contact the Commission via email at info@azarts.gov or phone at (602) 771-6501. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Provide detailed and specific answers to all essay questions. Ensure the application is fully complete before submission, as edits are not allowed post-submission.