5×5 and Teacher Arts Grants

The Fund for the Arts 5x5 and Teacher Arts Grants (TAG) program is designed to support K-12 teachers and administrators in enhancing classroom instruction through arts-integrated programming. Eligible applicants include teachers and administrators within the Fund for the Arts service areas, which encompass Bullitt, Jefferson, Oldham, and Shelby counties in Kentucky, and Clark, Floyd, and Harrison counties in Indiana. The programs are connected directly to core learning outcomes and aim to complement academic curriculum through arts learning experiences. Approved arts organizations submit program proposals that are then listed in an online 5x5 and TAG Program Brochure. Schools select from these programs and submit an application for each desired program for the 2025-2026 school year. Schools are encouraged to submit no more than six program applications, although more are allowed if necessary. Fund for the Arts pays arts organizations directly for completed programs and reimburses schools separately for awarded Field Trip bus funds. To be eligible as an arts organization, applicants must have operated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit for at least three consecutive years, be based in Greater Louisville, have at least one full-time equivalent staff, maintain at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance, and employ trained teaching artists with educational experience. Organizations must also conduct annual background checks on all teaching artists and have a strong track record of providing year-round arts in education programming across recognized artistic fields. Program proposals must be submitted through the Fund for the Arts Online Grant Portal. Applications opened on April 7, 2025, and are due by 11:59 PM EST on May 23, 2025. Schools and arts organizations will be notified of approval status by June 27, 2025. Programs may begin once scheduled after September 29, 2025, and must conclude by May 29, 2026. Teaching artists must have completed background checks prior to program start dates. Virtual Office Hours are available every Tuesday from 4-5 PM EST to assist applicants, and additional resources include a recorded information session. Schools and arts organizations must complete final impact surveys and submit invoices by the respective deadlines following the conclusion of their programs.