Professional Development Grants for Arts Organizations

The Professional Development Grants for Arts Organizations program is an initiative of South Arts, a nonprofit regional arts organization committed to strengthening the infrastructure and sustainability of the arts sector across the Southern United States. These grants are designed to help arts organizations enhance their internal capacity and long-term viability through targeted professional development efforts. This includes activities that help staff and board members build the knowledge and skills necessary for organizational growth, operational stability, and improved service to their communities. Grant funds can be used to support participation in both in-person and virtual professional development opportunities. Eligible expenses include registration or admission fees, travel and lodging costs, and consultant or facilitator fees for organizational learning activities. Examples of qualifying projects include attending national conferences, engaging in board training retreats, or bringing in experts to conduct strategic planning or DEI workshops. Importantly, projects must represent “first-time” participation in the proposed activity and must directly relate to the applicant's arts programming or services. To be eligible, applicants must be nonprofit or governmental arts organizations located within South Arts’ nine-state service area: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Tennessee. Organizations must have an annual operating budget of $500,000 or less. Qualifying entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, state or local government units, and federally recognized tribal communities. Fiscally sponsored groups, individuals, for-profit organizations, and entities outside the designated region are not eligible to apply. All applicants must have a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Grants range from $250 to $1,000 and must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis. South Arts will provide up to 50% of eligible project expenses, and applicants must contribute an equivalent cash match. Reimbursable expenses must be documented with receipts, except for mileage and per diem allowances, which follow South Arts’ published rates. Funding cannot be used for activities that are already supported by South Arts or convenings sponsored by state or local arts agencies. Applicants may request support for multiple staff or board participants, provided the total request does not exceed $1,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, beginning July 16, 2025, and continuing through April 30, 2026. All proposals must be submitted at least 60 days in advance of the proposed professional development activity. All funded activities must occur between October 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. Only one application may be submitted per grant cycle. While funds are limited, South Arts encourages new applicants to contact the program director before applying to confirm eligibility. Grantees must meet accessibility requirements and comply with acknowledgement standards for South Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Ensure activity is new, match is met, and contact program staff before applying.