Special Projects Grant Program

The North Dakota Council on the Arts (NDCA) offers Special Projects (SP) grants to support diverse art events across all disciplines and forms within North Dakota. This program aligns with the NDCA's mission to provide art experiences for a wide range of populations throughout the state. The grants aim to foster artistic expression and engagement, ensuring that communities and individuals in North Dakota have access to and participate in various art forms. Target beneficiaries for this program include individual artists, North Dakota state and federally tax-exempt nonprofit arts organizations, federally tax-exempt non-arts organizations with isolated arts budgets, public entities (state, local, or tribal government units), and affiliate arts-presenting or arts-producing organizations. Fiscally sponsored groups with arts projects, comprising at least three people and an advisory committee, are also eligible. The primary impact goal is to broaden access to and participation in the arts, enriching the cultural landscape of North Dakota and promoting community involvement in artistic endeavors. The program prioritizes initiatives that engage audiences and are not solely focused on teaching or learning, although educational elements within broader community events are acceptable. Funding supports initiating art events, including exhibitions, performances, and festivals (in-person or online), murals, sculptures, public art installations with community input, and publications that involve community participation. Annual events can receive funding for up to two consecutive years if adjustments are made to increase audience participation, demonstrating a commitment to sustained engagement and growth. Expected outcomes include an increase in the variety and accessibility of art experiences for North Dakotans, enhanced community participation in arts and cultural activities, and the creation of new artistic works or the expansion of existing ones. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond increased audience participation for annual events, the program's emphasis on intentional audience engagement and diverse art forms suggests that success will be gauged by the reach and impact of funded projects on North Dakota communities and artists. The grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 (with Special Projects providing up to $1,500), support projects within the NDCA Fiscal Year (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025).