Arts in Practice Grants

The Virginia Commission for the Arts, a state agency and official entity of the Commonwealth of Virginia, administers the Arts in Practice Grants to enhance access to artist-led educational programming across the state. Rooted in the agency's broader commitment to cultural enrichment and equitable access to the arts, this grant program supports participatory artist residencies for diverse populations, including youth, educators, and communities across various public and private institutions. By incentivizing collaborations between organizations and approved artists, the grant helps integrate high-quality arts education into schools, community centers, correctional facilities, and more. Arts in Practice Grants are intended to reimburse eligible Virginia-based organizations up to 50 percent of the fees associated with artist-led residencies or workshops. These engagements must be conducted in person and must be led by artists who are pre-approved and listed on the Virginia Commission for the Arts' Teaching Artist Roster. While programming duration and format may vary, the activities must include a participatory component and may support general educational experiences or professional development for arts educators. Concerts, field trips, or passive audience-style events are not eligible under this program. To qualify, applicants must be located in Virginia and be a tax-exempt school (including public, charter, private, homeschool, special education, and higher education institutions), a nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status, or a local or tribal government unit. However, organizations already receiving General Operating Support (GOS) from the Commission are not eligible. Each eligible entity may apply for a maximum of two Arts in Practice Grants per fiscal year. All programming must take place in Virginia-based, ADA-compliant venues, and all applicants must be in good standing with no overdue final reports or current federal suspensions. The program operates on a rolling basis, accepting applications from July 1, 2025, through April 1, 2026. Applicants must apply at least two weeks before the planned start date of their residency. Awards are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted. Funding is capped at $2,000 per grant, with a 1:1 cash match required from applicants. Matching funds must come from non-state or non-federal sources, including earned income, local government contributions, or private support. Awardees are responsible for compensating the Teaching Artist in full. Applications are submitted through the Commission's online platform and must include a signed contract with a VCA Teaching Artist that includes a specific contingency clause referencing grant dependency. Additional required documentation includes a completed budget form, a signed certification of assurances, a Virginia W-9 form, and proof of nonprofit status. Following approval, applicants are generally notified within two weeks, and payment is issued within 30 days. A final report is required within 30 days of activity completion. If income exceeds expenses, surplus funds must be directed to other arts-related programming with prior Commission approval. For assistance, the Virginia Commission for the Arts can be contacted at 804-225-3132. The Commission’s office is located at Main Street Centre, 600 East Main Street, Suite #330, Richmond, VA 23219. This grant provides a vital opportunity for Virginia organizations to enhance educational outcomes through arts programming while supporting the livelihood of professional artists across the Commonwealth.

Applicants must apply at least two weeks before residency start and submit final reports within 30 days of completion. All project planning and negotiation with Teaching Artists must be finalized before submission.