Organizational Project Grant Program

The Horizons Organizational Project Grant is a long-standing funding opportunity administered by Salina Arts & Humanities and supported through the Salina Arts & Humanities Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Originating in 1985, this grant program draws its financial resources from a group of private individuals and businesses committed to enriching the cultural landscape of Saline County, Kansas. While the Foundation determines the annual budget and approves final funding decisions, staff at Salina Arts & Humanities handle the administration of the grant program. The program aims to cultivate artistic excellence, encourage public participation, and promote community-wide partnerships through cultural projects. The grant specifically supports cultural programming and capacity-building efforts that enhance the arts and cultural offerings in the community. Examples of supported initiatives include concerts, exhibitions, educational and professional artist visits, festival activities, and the commissioning of new work. Additionally, the grant welcomes proposals for technical assistance and organizational development projects that enhance the effectiveness of existing nonprofit cultural organizations, provided they involve qualified professionals. Projects must have a clear community impact and align with the applicant’s mission while demonstrating artistic merit and administrative competency. Grants are not intended for general operating expenses and cannot be used for capital purchases, tuition, travel, fundraisers, or projects completed outside the grant period. The funding is awarded on a one-to-one matching basis, with a maximum request of $6,000. Only nonprofit organizations and local governmental units based in Saline County are eligible to apply, although unincorporated groups may partner with eligible fiscal agents. Up to 20% of the project budget may be allocated to administrative costs, including fiscal agent fees, typically capped at 7–10% of the total grant amount. To begin the application process, returning applicants must notify Salina Arts & Humanities of their intent to apply by October 4, 2025, while first-time applicants must do so by September 20, 2025. First-time applicants are required to meet with staff prior to submitting a proposal. Applications open on May 1, 2025, and must be submitted online by 11:59 PM on November 1, 2025. Applicants may submit up to two applications per cycle, with the total combined request not exceeding $6,000. Projects must occur between February 1 and November 30, 2026. Evaluation of applications is conducted by an external panel using a 100-point rubric assessing artistic merit, community involvement, and financial and organizational management. Final funding decisions are made by the Salina Arts & Humanities Foundation. Successful applicants will receive 90% of their award upon execution of the grant agreement, and the remaining 10% following the submission and approval of a final report, which must include project documentation such as photographs and evaluation materials. Final reports are due no later than December 15, 2026, or 30 days after the project ends, whichever is earlier. For assistance or more information, applicants are encouraged to contact Anna Pauscher Morawitz at sah@salina.org or by phone at 785-309-5770. The office is located at 211 West Iron, PO Box 2181, Salina, KS 67402-2181. This grant opportunity is recurring annually, and organizations seeking funding in future years should anticipate similar cycles and deadlines.

First-time applicants must meet with SAH staff before applying. All applicants are advised to discuss proposals with staff before submission. Collaborative projects are encouraged.