2025 Arts Express Grant Program
This program provides financial support to individual artists, arts groups, and cultural organizations in San Benito County to foster creative and cultural activities that promote community engagement and diversity.
The San Benito County Arts Council administers the Arts Express Grant Program to support the development of creative and cultural activities throughout San Benito County. This program is designed to promote artistic expression, cultural engagement, and community enrichment by offering financial assistance to individual artists, arts groups, and cultural organizations. Funding through this program is available for both project-based work and general operational support, offering flexibility to a range of creative and organizational needs. The Arts Express Grant Program aligns with the Council's broader mission to activate and connect people, spaces, and communities through arts, culture, and creativity. By targeting accessibility, equity, and diversity, the program ensures that local communities benefit from inclusive and representative artistic initiatives. It helps to build an engaged cultural ecosystem that reflects the county’s diverse populations and needs. In 2024, the program received 26 applications requesting a total of over $75,000 in funding. Ultimately, 16 grants were awarded following a thorough review process conducted by a panel of six evaluators. Their recommendations were then approved by the San Benito County Arts Council’s Board of Directors. Grant recipients included a mix of established organizations, emerging groups, and individual artists across various disciplines. Among the 2024 recipients were organizations and cultural groups such as El Teatro Campesino, Aromas Hills Artisans, and the San Benito County Historical Society, as well as local educational and arts-based nonprofits. Individual artists recognized included Ramona Hill, Sandra Arretche, and Arturo Munoz, among others. This diverse group reflects the program’s commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of art forms and community-driven efforts. The grant is made possible through the generous support of The David & Lucile Packard Foundation, underscoring the importance of philanthropic partnerships in sustaining the local arts sector. Details about the application process for the 2025 cycle are expected to be released in Summer 2025, with updates to be provided on the Arts Council’s website and social media channels. Interested applicants and community members seeking more information about the Arts Express Grant Program can contact the San Benito County Arts Council by phone at 831-636-2787 or via email at info@sanbenitoarts.org. The Council is headquartered at 35 5th Street, Suite D in Hollister, CA 95023, with mailing address at P.O. Box 692, Hollister, CA 95024.
Award Range
$2,500 - $5,000
Total Program Funding
Not specified
Number of Awards
Not specified
Matching Requirement
No
Eligible Applicants
Geographic Eligibility
San Benito County (CA)
Application Opens
Not specified
Application Closes
Not specified
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