City of Fairfax Commission on the Arts Grant

The City of Fairfax Commission on the Arts administers an annual grant program to support the growth and development of arts and culture within the City of Fairfax. This initiative stems from the Commission’s broader mission to cultivate a vibrant community by encouraging excellence, innovation, and accessibility in the arts. The funding initiative aligns with the City’s strategic goals of enhancing cultural life and civic engagement through creative expression. Artists and arts organizations are invited to submit project proposals that will benefit residents by offering high-quality, inclusive, and publicly accessible artistic experiences. The grant is open to individuals and organizations whose activities fall within the fiscal year July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, local chapters of tax-exempt national organizations, educational institutions, and individual practicing artists in various disciplines such as music, theater, dance, visual arts, media arts, and literature. All applicants must be located in, or present projects within, the City of Fairfax or its immediate surroundings. Funded activities may include educational programs, artistic showcases, community arts events, and skill development initiatives. The Commission does not support general operating expenses, fundraising activities, religious events, or school-based projects that do not significantly involve non-student populations. Applicants must submit a complete and signed online application using the Commission’s interactive fillable form. The application must detail a specific arts-related project and explain its objectives, intended audience, and accessibility. Submission must be made by September 12, 2025, at 5 PM. Late applications will not be accepted. Additional materials can be submitted by mail or in person to the Commission’s office. The Commission prioritizes proposals that are new, innovative, accessible to the public, and contribute to the cultural vibrancy and economic vitality of the City. Funding will be provided in two disbursements: 75% upon grant award and receipt of a signed agreement, and 25% following submission of a final project report. Reports must be filed within 60 days of project completion or by June 30, 2026. Required report elements include financial summaries, event assessments, attendance numbers, and examples of promotional materials showing the Commission’s acknowledgment. Failure to submit a timely and complete report may result in the forfeiture of the final 25% and future grant ineligibility. The Commission evaluates applications at its October meeting using specific criteria, including the project’s public benefit, artistic quality, community impact, and alignment with City goals. The Commission reserves the right to adjust awards based on available funding and public health guidelines. All funded projects must include public acknowledgment of the Commission’s support in print and digital materials. For assistance or inquiries, applicants may contact Megan DuBois, Cultural Arts Manager, at megan.dubois@fairfaxva.gov or by phone at 703-273-6097. Applications opened on July 1, 2025, and close September 12, 2025. This grant is offered annually and is expected to reopen in July 2026.

Draft responses in a Word document first before pasting into the online form, as the form cannot be saved mid-entry.