The ArtsCONNECT Grant is a funding opportunity provided by Mid Atlantic Arts to support performing arts touring projects collaboratively developed by presenters within the mid-Atlantic region. The grant aims to enhance audience engagement by supporting both performances and complementary activities that foster greater connections between artists, audiences, and communities. The funding is designed to encourage projects that demonstrate strong artistic quality, mission alignment, meaningful community engagement, and inclusive audience outreach.
Eligible applicants include three or more presenters located within the eligible region who partner to present the same artist or company within the project period. Each partner presenter can receive a subsidy covering up to 50% of the artist or company’s compensation, with a maximum grant of $10,000 per presenter. Additionally, up to $2,000 can be provided for direct project expenses. The funding prioritizes projects that make intentional efforts to serve systemically underserved communities.
To be eligible, applicants must be based in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Virginia, West Virginia, or the Native nations within these geographies. Organizations must also be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, units of state or local government, or Federally recognized Indian tribal governments. All applicants must be in good standing with Mid Atlantic Arts and demonstrate administrative capacity to complete the required project components.
The 2025-2026 ArtsCONNECT grant cycle follows a structured timeline:
November 5, 2024 – Application portal opens.
November 14, 2024 – Presenter information webinar.
December 12, 2024 – Presenter pitch session.
February 13, 2025 – Projects in Development submission deadline.
February 25, 2025 – Final grant application deadline.
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 – Project period for funded engagements.
To apply, at least one presenter in each consortium must first submit an artist or company for inclusion in the Projects in Development listing by February 13, 2025. After this step, the full application is due by February 25, 2025. Applications are reviewed by a panel of independent reviewers who recommend projects for funding. Organizations seeking assistance can attend informational webinars and pitch sessions to better understand the grant’s requirements.
Funded projects must align with Mid Atlantic Arts’ commitment to accessibility, artistic excellence, and community engagement. For inquiries, applicants can reach out to Sarah Lewitus, Program Director, or Sarah Theune, Program Associate. Mid Atlantic Arts operates in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and state, jurisdictional, and territorial arts agencies across the eligible region.
