Grants for City or township governments - Arts

Operating Grants I & II, offered by the Arts Council for Long Beach (ACLB), provide unrestricted support to Long Beach-based arts and cultural organizations. The primary mission of these grants aligns with the ACLB's commitment to fostering artistic excellence by supporting organizations that collect, preserve, present, and/or commission exemplary works of art, including visual art exhibitions, theatre, dance, and musical performances. This directly supports the foundation's goal of enriching the cultural landscape of Long Beach by empowering organizations that contribute to the arts. The target beneficiaries for these grants are Long Beach-based arts and cultural organizations with annual budgets exceeding $250,000. These organizations must produce works of art of regional significance, benefiting the general public, and offering educational opportunities to enhance artistic understanding and appreciation. The impact goals are multi-faceted, aiming to strengthen both artistic programming and organizational management, ultimately leading to a positive community impact. The program prioritizes several key areas. Artistically, it seeks to encourage the development of long-term, high-quality artistic programs and support innovative, creative, and unique projects that challenge audiences and participants. In terms of organizational management, the grants support best practices, including long-term planning, accountability, fund development, transparency, evaluation, appropriate qualifications of board and staff, and overall fiscal health. Community impact is also a significant focus, supporting organizations that identify and meet community needs through planning and program delivery, develop new audiences, and foster tourism or expand the market for artistic disciplines. Expected outcomes include the creation of quality artistic programs, innovative projects, and improved organizational management practices. Measurable results would involve the development of new audiences, enhanced community engagement, and a stronger arts ecosystem in Long Beach. While a formal "theory of change" is not explicitly stated, the program implicitly operates on the theory that by providing robust operational support and promoting best practices in artistic and organizational development, the ACLB can cultivate a vibrant and sustainable arts and culture sector that enriches the lives of Long Beach residents and attracts visitors. Funding information indicates grant awards for OPG I range from $5,000 to $8,000, and for OPG II from $18,000 to $25,000.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for large-scale public art projects in southwest Minnesota, aimed at organizations, cities, and tribal governments that will create a lasting arts legacy in the region.

This funding opportunity supports a variety of organizations and individuals in Togo to create projects that strengthen cultural ties and promote mutual understanding between the United States and Togo, focusing on themes like peace, democracy, and economic growth.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for New Jersey-based nonprofit organizations and government entities to implement public humanities projects that engage local audiences through activities like exhibitions, oral history projects, and community programs.

This program provides financial assistance to nonprofit organizations for hosting community events that promote cultural and recreational opportunities for residents of Avon, Connecticut.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and tribal governments in New York State for projects that engage the public in meaningful discussions and reflections on current issues through the humanities.

This program provides financial support to property owners and long-term leaseholders in downtown Decorah for exterior building renovations and the conversion of upper-story spaces into residential units, promoting economic growth and community vibrancy.

The Special Project grants, offered by the City of Saint Paul through its Cultural STAR fund, aim to support quality arts activities across all disciplines within the city's geographic boundaries. This initiative is deeply aligned with the fund's overarching mission to promote cultural vitality and economic growth, particularly within the downtown Cultural District, by strengthening the arts and culture community. The grants are designed to support projects that contribute to a vibrant cultural landscape, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents and attracting visitors, thereby fostering economic development. Target beneficiaries for these grants include nonprofit arts and cultural organizations located within the City of Saint Paul, as well as informal arts-focused groups, individuals, and one-time arts projects that partner with eligible nonprofits. Businesses in the Cultural District are also eligible for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment. The impact goals are centered on building and diversifying audiences, promoting a broad range of cultural offerings, producing long-term cultural impact, and leveraging additional financial support for the arts. The Cultural STAR Program prioritizes projects and programs that attract audiences, develop and improve cultural facilities, and build the capacity of artists and cultural organizations. A significant focus is placed on the Cultural District of downtown Saint Paul, with at least 80% of funds allocated to nonprofit organizations within this targeted area. The remaining 20% can support businesses in the Cultural District or nonprofit organizations located elsewhere in Saint Paul. This geographic focus underscores the strategic priority of revitalizing and enriching the downtown cultural hub. Expected outcomes include increased audience engagement with diverse cultural offerings, enhanced and accessible cultural facilities, and strengthened organizational capacity within the arts and culture sector. Measurable results could include metrics related to audience attendance, the number and variety of cultural events, improvements in cultural infrastructure, and the ability of organizations to secure additional funding. The Cultural STAR fund's theory of change is that by investing in these areas, it will lead to sustained cultural vitality and economic growth, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for both residents and tourists.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in Hong Kong and Macau to implement projects that promote U.S. values and strengthen bilateral ties through cultural exchanges, STEAM activities, and American English language programs.

The City of Ventura offers Special Event Grants to support events and festivals that enhance public spaces and boost visitor spending. The program aims to champion community celebrations that draw in both residents and visitors, reinforce Ventura's cultural identity and economic vitality, and foster an entrepreneurial spirit alongside innovative public-private partnerships. While the document does not explicitly state a "foundation mission alignment," the grant's objectives align with broader municipal goals of community enrichment, economic development, and cultural promotion within the city. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are City of Ventura-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status, or those with a City of Ventura-based fiscal agent that holds 501(c)(3) status. The grants are intended to increase the number of free and affordable community events, thereby benefiting residents and visitors by providing accessible cultural and entertainment opportunities. The impact goals include strengthening Ventura’s cultural identity, enhancing economic vitality through increased visitor spending, and promoting collaboration between sectors. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around activating public spaces and celebrating community. Specifically, the annual funding through the Special Event Grant Program aims to support events that attract residents and visitors, strengthening the city's cultural and economic fabric. This year, there is an additional focus, approved by the Ventura City Council in their 2023-24 goals, to award one-time funding to specifically increase free and affordable community events throughout the city. Expected outcomes and measurable results, while not explicitly detailed with specific metrics, can be inferred from the grant's objectives. These would likely include an increase in the number of free and affordable events, a rise in visitor spending attributable to these events, enhanced community engagement and participation in local celebrations, and a strengthened sense of cultural identity within Ventura. The grant also seeks to promote innovative partnerships, suggesting an outcome of increased collaboration between private sector and public agencies. The "theory of change" underpinning this program is that by funding special events, the city can achieve its broader strategic priorities of community development, economic growth, and cultural enrichment.

This program provides funding to small towns for community-driven projects that enhance public spaces and infrastructure, promoting local engagement and revitalization.

This grant provides financial support for arts-based projects in rural South Carolina that aim to enhance community engagement and access to the arts while addressing local challenges.

The Arts and Culture Access funding is designed to support the engagement of Orange County Public Schools students in the arts, which is associated with improvements in math, reading, cognitive abilities, critical thinking, verbal skills, motivation, concentration, confidence, and teamwork. This initiative facilitates students' development of these skills through field trips and in-school programs that are integrated into their class curriculum. The program welcomes applications year-round, with a primary funding decision period in late summer. For priority consideration, applications should be submitted by June 30th, following the opening of the application period on June 1st.

This grant provides financial support to property owners of historic sites in Park City for the preservation and restoration of their buildings, ensuring the community maintains its historical character.

The County History Partnership Program (CHPP), established in 2015 by the New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), aims to decentralize the administration of local re-granting programs across all 21 New Jersey counties. This initiative directly aligns with the mission to support local history organizations that serve the public, fostering a broader engagement with the state's historical heritage. The program is administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, which functions as the donor, extending the NJHC's strategic goal of strengthening local historical infrastructure. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are historical societies, organizations, nonprofits, and municipalities responsible for historic structures or archaeological sites. Eligible applicants must be Somerset County-based. The program's impact goals revolve around increasing public access to New Jersey history, expanding knowledge of the state's past, and improving the management capabilities of local history organizations. This approach is intended to create a more robust and accessible local history ecosystem within Somerset County. The grant prioritizes organizations that provide programs or services that achieve these goals. Specifically, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public access to history or expanding historical knowledge. Another key focus is on improving the operational and managerial effectiveness of local history organizations, thereby ensuring their long-term sustainability and impact. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by empowering local organizations with financial support and clear objectives, they can more effectively serve the public and preserve historical assets. Expected outcomes include a more engaged public with New Jersey history, a greater depth of historical knowledge disseminated, and more efficiently run local history organizations. Measurable results would likely include increased participation in historical programs, documented improvements in organizational management, and successful preservation efforts of historic sites. Organizations are also required to have provided public history programs and/or services in Somerset County for the benefit of the general public for at least two years prior to application, and must provide proof of stability and fiscal responsibility, ensuring the grant's investment is directed towards established and accountable entities.

Community Grants Fall Round applications for projects beginning after December 1: The Community Foundation of Greene County's General Community Grants are funded through the Field of Interest Funds and discretionary funds such as The Good For Greene Fund and The Francis “Bob” Bradford Fund. These grants support projects aligning with the goals of specific funds, aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Greene County, Pennsylvania. Projects can span various sectors including animal welfare, environmental protection, arts and culture, community development, education, health, and human needs. The award for a Community Grant does not exceed $5,000. Applications are considered based on their potential impact, promotion of cooperation among agencies, and effectiveness in addressing community needs. Grant renewed every year. Grant Summer Annual deadline: June 1st

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations in the greater Theresa area to support projects that enhance community well-being, education, and cultural initiatives.

The District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) invites applications for funding to support community-based organizations in implementing place-based initiatives. The overarching goal is to improve the well-being and stability of families through community-driven efforts. This aligns with a mission to empower local communities by providing resources and services that directly address their specific needs and strengths, fostering self-sufficiency and improved family outcomes. The grant program aims to establish and support Family Success Centers, which will serve as accessible hubs for neighbors to utilize computers, access various resources and services, and participate in classes and trainings. Each center is designed to be unique, reflecting the specific strengths and goals of its community, ensuring that the support provided is relevant and impactful. This model focuses on localized solutions, recognizing that effective family support is best achieved when tailored to the community it serves. Target beneficiaries for these initiatives are families within the District of Columbia, with a particular focus on those who can benefit from enhanced access to resources and services that improve well-being and stability. The impact goals include fostering stronger, more resilient families and communities by addressing multiple aspects of family life. This approach seeks to create a network of support that is easily accessible and responsive to the evolving needs of residents. The program prioritizes non-profit, community-based organizations that can demonstrate their ability to meet identified needs and commit to implementing program measures over the grant period. Eligible organizations include non-profit, private, public, and faith-based entities. Partnerships between organizations are encouraged to facilitate comprehensive service delivery. Expected outcomes include increased access to vital resources, improved family well-being, enhanced community stability, and the development of sustainable, community-led initiatives. Measurable results will likely include metrics related to service utilization, program participation, and indicators of family and community stability and well-being. Funding information indicates that eligible organizations can receive up to $325,000 in the 12-month base year, with the potential for an additional $325,000 per year for up to four option years, for a maximum grant duration of five years. This sustained funding is intended to support the long-term implementation and impact of these place-based family support initiatives. The strategic priority is to invest in local organizations that are deeply embedded within the communities they serve, thereby leveraging existing community strengths and relationships to achieve lasting positive change.

The Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Family Foundation offers grants between $1,000 to $10,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations in the Baltimore area, focusing on mental health, cancer prevention and treatment, arts exposure for youth, and educational opportunities for disadvantaged children, excluding start-ups, capital projects, individuals, multi-year projects, higher education institutions, and organizations outside Baltimore.

The Arts & Culture Capacity Building Grant Program, offered by the City of Dubuque, is designed to support initiatives that foster more sustainable and effective arts and culture organizations within the city. This program aligns with a mission to strengthen the operational capacity of local arts and culture entities, ensuring their long-term viability and ability to contribute to the community. Funding is available for fiscal year 2025, from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, with a total of $35,000 allocated for grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, although eligible organizations can apply for up to $8,000. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are arts and culture organizations that are nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, have at least two years of programming documentation and two Form 990s, and are officially located within the city limits of Dubuque. These organizations must serve residents of Dubuque and conduct programming within the city. The program aims to impact these organizations by enhancing their capacity in various key areas, ultimately leading to improved organizational health and effectiveness. The program prioritizes a range of capacity-building initiatives. These include strategic planning, creating development plans and/or fundraising strategies, improving donor experience, providing nonprofit 101 training for staff and board members, leadership development, project or program development, program management, volunteer management, and Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) training. These focus areas are intended to address common challenges faced by arts and culture organizations and equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. Expected outcomes include organizations with stronger strategic frameworks, enhanced fundraising capabilities, improved donor engagement, more skilled staff and board members, and more effectively managed projects and programs. Measurable results would involve the successful implementation of these capacity-building initiatives, which could be tracked through reports detailing new strategic plans, implemented fundraising strategies, attendance at training sessions, and improved operational metrics. The City of Dubuque's strategic priorities for this grant program appear to be rooted in a theory of change that by investing in the foundational and operational strength of its arts and culture sector, it will foster a more vibrant, resilient, and inclusive cultural landscape for its residents.