Grants for Individuals - Arts

This contest invites Asian American students in grades 6 through 12 to submit personal essays that explore the significance of representation in literature and media, with the goal of amplifying their voices and experiences.

A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION This project seeks U.S. and Dominican organizations to bring U.S. artists to conduct visual storytelling workshops for at-risk youth. These workshops aim to promote human rights and empower disadvantaged communities through the arts. The workshops must include modules on human rights history, advocacy, and examples of human rights movements in both the U.S. and the Dominican Republic. Additionally, participants will engage in modules focused on story development and comic creation (books, graphic novels, and/or comic strips). The program will feature a competition where participants will develop their stories and publish them on an online platform for the audience to read and vote for their favorites. The top stories will be printed and distributed at the binational centers and Dominican universities, with at least 1,000 print copies. These publications will also include information on how to access EducationUSA resources, providing participants with more information about arts education in the U.S. Through this program, at least 50 Dominican youth ages 16-30, should acquire storytelling skills and exposure to U.S. arts education, deepening their understanding of human rights and associated movements in both the U.S. and the Dominican Republic. Additionally, the competition should impact youth in the Dominican Republic by fostering alignment with U.S. positions on issues like equality, diversity, and inclusion through alumni-shared stories. B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of Performance Period: 12-18 months Program Performance Period: Must be completed in 18 months or less. This notice is subject to funding availability. C. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION Eligible Applicants: Individuals and the following organizations are eligible to apply: U.S. and Dominican not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations; U.S. and Dominican public and private educational institutions; U.S. and Dominican organizations related to arts and/or human rights advocacy; U.S. artists. Cost Sharing or Matching: Cost sharing is desired but not required for this award competition. Other Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have an active registration on www.SAM.gov. Please see Section D.6 for information on how to obtain these registrations. D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION Address to Request Application Package: Application forms required below are available on the U.S. Embassy website. Content and Form of Application Submission: Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible. Content of Application: Please ensure the proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity. All documents must be in English, all budgets in U.S. dollars, all pages numbered, all documents formatted to 8 x 11 paper, and all Microsoft Word documents single-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins. The following documents are required: Mandatory application forms: SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance organizations), SF424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs), SF424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs). Summary Page: Cover sheet stating the applicant name and organization, proposal date, program title, program period proposed start and end date, and brief purpose of the program. Proposal (10 pages maximum): The proposal should contain sufficient information that anyone not familiar with it would understand exactly what the applicant wants to do. You may use your own proposal format, but it must include all the items below: Proposal Summary: A short narrative that outlines the proposed program, including program objectives and anticipated impact. Introduction to the Organization applying: A description of past and present operations, showing the ability to carry out the program, including information on all previous grants from the U.S. Embassy and/or U.S. government agencies. Problem Statement: Clear, concise, and well-supported statement of the problem to be addressed and why the proposed program is needed. Program Goals and Objectives: The goals describe what the program is intended to achieve. The objectives refer to the intermediate accomplishments on the way to the goals. These should be achievable and measurable. Program Activities: Describe the program activities and how they will help achieve the objectives. Program Methods and Design: A description of how the program is expected to work to solve the stated problem and achieve the goal. Include a logic model as appropriate. Proposed Program Schedule and Timeline: The proposed timeline for the program activities. Include the dates, times, and locations of planned activities and events. Key Personnel: Names, titles, roles, and experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program. What proportion of their time will be used in support of this program? Program Partners: List the names and types of involvement of key partner organizations and sub-awardees. Program Monitoring and Evaluation Plan: This is an important part of successful grants. Throughout the time frame of the grant, how will the activities be monitored to ensure they are happening promptly, and how will the program be evaluated to make sure it is meeting the goals of the grant? Future Funding or Sustainability Applicants plan for continuing the program beyond the grant period, or the availability of other resources, if applicable. Budget Justification Narrative: After filling out the SF-424A Budget (above), use a separate sheet of paper to describe each of the budget expenses in detail. See section H. Other Information: Guidelines for Budget Submissions below for further information. Attachments: 1-page CV or resume of key personnel who are proposed for the program. Letters of support from program partners describing the roles and responsibilities of each partner. If your organization has a NICRA and includes NICRA charges in the budget, your latest NICRA should be included as a PDF file. Official permission letters, if required for program activities. Required Registrations: All organizations applying for grants (except individuals) must obtain these registrations. All are free of charge: www.SAM.gov registration which will generate an UEI, NCAGE/CAGE code. Any applicant with an exclusion in the System for Award Management (SAM) is not eligible to apply for an assistance award in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235), "Debarment and Suspension". The Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. SAM.gov is the Federal government's primary database for complying with FFATA reporting requirements. OMB designated SAM.gov as the central repository to facilitate applicant and recipient use of a single public website that consolidates data on all federal financial assistance. Under the law, it is mandatory to register on SAM.gov. Starting April 2022, the UEI will be assigned when an organization registers or renews its registration in SAM.gov at www.sam.gov. To access SAM.gov an organization is required to have a Login.gov account. Organizations can create an account at https://login.gov. As a reminder, organizations need to renew their sam.gov registration annually. Foreign-based organizations must apply for an NCAGE code before registering on SAM.gov. To register, go to: https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/CageTool/home to apply for a CAGE code. NCAGE codes must be renewed every 5 years. It is in the organization's best interest to check if their CAGE/or NCAGE codes are active. Organizations are required to register/or renew their CAGE or NCAGE codes prior to registering or renewing www.sam.gov. Both registration and renewals for both CAGE and NCAGE can take up to 10 days. The organization's legal address in NCAGE/CAGE must mirror www. sam.gov. Organizations are required to register/or renew their CAGE or NCAGE codes prior to registering or renewing www.sam.gov. Both registration and renewals for both CAGE and NCAGE can take up to 10 days. The organization's legal address in NCAGE/CAGE must mirror www. sam.gov. www.sam.gov requires all entities to renew their registration once a year in order to maintain an active registration status in SAM.gov. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure it has an active registration in SAM.gov. Submission Dates and Times: Applications are due no later than August 15, 2024. Other Submission Requirements: All application materials must be submitted by email to [email protected]. E. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION Criteria: Each application will be evaluated and rated based on the evaluation criteria outlined below. Quality and Feasibility of the Program Idea 25 points: The program idea is well developed, with details about how program activities will be carried out. The proposal includes a reasonable implementation timeline. Organizational Capacity and Record on Previous Grants 25 points: The organization has expertise in its stated field and has internal controls in place to manage federal funds. This includes a financial management system and a bank account. Program Planning/Ability to Achieve Objectives 15 points: Goals and objectives are clearly stated and the program approach is likely to provide maximum impact in achieving the proposed results. Budget 10 points: The budget justification is detailed. Costs are reasonable for the proposed activities and anticipated results. The budget is realistic, accounting for all necessary expenses to achieve proposed activities. Monitoring and evaluation plan 15 points: Applicant demonstrates it can measure program success against key indicators and provides milestones to indicate progress toward goals outlined in the proposal. The program includes output and outcome indicators and shows how and when those will be measured. Sustainability 10 points: Program activities will continue to have a positive impact after the end of the program. Review and Selection Process: A Grants Review Committee will evaluate all eligible applications. F. FEDERAL AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION Federal Award Notices: The grant award or cooperative agreement will be written, signed, awarded, and administered by the Grants Officer. The assistance award agreement is the authorizing document and it will be provided to the recipient for review and signature by email. The recipient may only start incurring program expenses beginning on the start date shown on the grant award document signed by the Grants Officer. If a proposal is selected for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional funding. Renewal of an award to increase funding or extend the period of performance is at the discretion of the Department of State. Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received. Payment Method: According to the U.S. governments federal assistance policy, recipients do not receive advance payments over their immediate cash needs. Generally, up to 20% of the grant total is withheld as a final payment to ensure that final reports are submitted by grantees. All successful applicants will be provided with this information upon award of funds. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: Applicants should review all terms and conditions and required certifications that will apply to this award, available at: https://www.state.gov/about-us-office-of-the-procurement-executive/. Note the U.S. flag branding and marking requirements in the Standard Terms and Conditions. Reporting: Recipients will be required to submit financial reports and program reports. The award document will specify how often these reports must be submitted. Please find links to the documents below. Narrative Report Instructions SF-PPR [PDF, 269 kB], Federal Financial Report SF-425 [PDF, 575 kB], Instructions for the Federal Financial Report [PDF, 160 kB]. G. OTHER INFORMATION Guidelines for Budget Justification Personnel and Fringe Benefits: Describe the wages, salaries, and benefits of temporary or permanent staff who will be working directly for the applicant on the program, and the percentage of their time that will be spent on the program. Travel: Estimate the costs of travel and per diem for this program, for program staff, consultants or speakers, and participants/beneficiaries. If the program involves international travel, include a brief statement of justification for that travel. Equipment: Describe any machinery, furniture, or other personal property that is required for the program, which has a useful life of more than one year (or a life longer than the duration of the program), and costs at least $5,000 per unit. Supplies: List and describe all the items and materials, including any computer devices, that are needed for the program. If an item costs more than $5,000 per unit, then put it in the budget under Equipment. Contractual: Describe goods and services that the applicant plans to acquire through a contract with a vendor. Also, describe any sub-awards to non-profit partners that will help carry out the project activities. Other Direct Costs: Describe other costs directly associated with the program, which do not fit in the other categories. For example, shipping costs for materials and equipment or applicable taxes. All Other or Miscellaneous expenses must be itemized and explained. Indirect Costs: These are costs that cannot be linked directly to the program activities, such as overhead costs needed to run the organization. If your organization has a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement (NICRA) with the U.S. government, include a copy with your proposal. If your organization does not have a NICRA, you may claim indirect costs at a de minimis rate of 10% of the modified total direct costs. Cost Sharing: Explain contributions (both cash and in-kind) that your organization and other partner organizations will make towards the cost of the program. It also includes in-kind contributions such as volunteers time and donated venues. Cost sharing is not required for this NOFO but is encouraged. Alcoholic Beverages: Please note that award funds cannot be used for alcoholic beverages. For further guidance on the federal budget and federal grant policies, please review the Federal Standard Terms and Conditions and the OMB Uniform Guidance at: https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/information-for-agencies/circulars/. H. FEDERAL AWARDING AGENCY CONTACTS If you have any questions about the grant application process, please contact [email protected].

The U.S. Embassy Beirut, Lebanons Public Diplomacy Section (PDS Beirut) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations or individuals to submit a statement of interest (SOI) to carry out a program to advance arts and culture, climate action, human rights and freedom of expression, sports, and experiential learning (learning by doing). Please carefully follow all instructions below. The submission of the SOI is the first step in a two-step process. Applicants must first submit a concise three-page statement of interest designed to clearly communicate program idea, objectives, and budget. This is not a full proposal. The purpose of the SOI process is to allow applicants to submit program ideas for evaluation prior to requiring the development of a full proposal application. Upon a merit review of eligible SOIs, selected applicants will be invited to expand on their program idea(s) by submitting a full proposal application. Full proposals will go through a second merit review before final funding decision(s) are made. Program Objectives: PDS Beirut seeks proposals that advance partnerships and connections between American and Lebanese organizations and communities. All proposals should include diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility components. Thematic priorities for this SOI are: Arts and culture. Climate action. Human rights and freedom of expression. Sports. Experiential learning (learning by doing).

This funding opportunity provides financial support to artists and creative workers in Indiana who are facing mental health challenges related to substance use and addiction, enabling them to access therapy and wellness services.

This program provides financial assistance to low-income homeowners in Michigan City to make essential improvements and repairs to their residences.

The Louisiana Cultural Equity Arts + Creation Grant, supported by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, aims to bolster individuals involved in the creation, documentation, or exhibition of artwork that captures, interprets, documents, or preserves Louisiana's diverse cultures. This grant directly aligns with the Foundation's mission to support and promote the unique cultural heritage of Louisiana. By focusing on cultural equity, the program ensures that artistic endeavors reflecting the state's traditions and social fabric are sustained and celebrated. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are individuals based in Louisiana who are engaged in artistic and cultural work. The program particularly encourages applications from ALAANA individuals (African, Latinx, Asian, Arab, and Native American) and those from historically underrepresented groups who are driving positive and transformative social change within the context of Louisiana culture and traditions. The impact goal is to foster a vibrant and inclusive artistic landscape that truly reflects the state's diverse population and promotes cultural understanding and preservation. The grant prioritizes projects that deeply engage with Louisiana's cultures and traditions. It focuses on supporting artists and creators who are committed to reflecting, interpreting, documenting, or preserving these cultural elements through their work. A key emphasis is placed on projects that demonstrate the potential for positive and transformative social change, especially from underrepresented voices. The maximum grant amount an applicant can request is $7,500, with grants generally ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, and a duration of one year. Expected outcomes include the creation of new artworks, the documentation of significant cultural practices, and the exhibition of diverse artistic expressions that enrich Louisiana's cultural tapestry. Measurable results would involve the number of projects funded, the reach of the created or exhibited work within communities, and feedback from beneficiaries regarding the impact of the grant on their artistic practice and community engagement. The Jazz & Heritage Foundation's strategic priorities are implicitly demonstrated through this grant's focus on cultural preservation, equity, and community engagement, indicating a theory of change where targeted financial support leads to a more diverse, equitable, and culturally rich Louisiana. All funded programs must occur between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025, and all grant funds must be spent within Louisiana, further ensuring that the investment directly benefits the state's cultural economy and artistic community.

Humanities Montana Research Fellowship supports projects with a central focus in the humanities, a clearly defined theme, and involvement of professional humanists. Projects must include a public program, publicity, and evaluation plans where appropriate. There is a 1:1 cost-share requirement and applications involving Native American communities or cultures must demonstrate their involvement or address why they are not involved. Humanities Montana cannot fund projects focusing on personal concerns, non-public meetings, construction or operating expenses of existing organizations, lobbying or direct social action, one-sided treatment of an issue, fundraising for profit-making groups, alcoholic beverages or entertainment costs, and candidates running for political office.

This grant provides financial assistance to private homeowners of historic properties in Phoenix for exterior rehabilitation and restoration work to preserve their architectural integrity and enhance neighborhood aesthetics.

This grant recognizes and rewards student and professional journalists in the U.S. who demonstrate exceptional ethical standards in their reporting, providing financial prizes based on the impact and integrity of their work.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for U.S. and Japanese organizations, educational institutions, and individuals to develop projects that strengthen U.S.-Japan relations through cultural, educational, and strategic initiatives.

This program provides funding for cultural and educational projects that strengthen ties between the U.S. and Türkiye, encouraging collaboration in areas like security, innovation, democratic values, and cultural exchange.

This funding opportunity provides $7,500 to individuals or organizations in Cambridge to create artistic projects that promote social justice and engage with underserved communities.

This grant provides financial support to authors working on literary nonfiction projects that use oral history to explore significant events and narratives, helping them complete their unpublished works.

The St. Johns Cultural Council State of the Arts Grant Program, available to public school teachers and arts organizations in St. Johns County, Florida, offers up to six $1,500 grants for the development of new or enhanced artistic programs, covering costs such as production, materials, staff salaries, professional development, and insurance for public art projects.

This funding initiative provides financial support to Los Angeles County filmmakers in the final stages of their projects, focusing on post-production elements to enhance diverse cultural storytelling.

This grant provides funding for projects that strengthen U.S.-Netherlands relations through cultural, educational, and collaborative initiatives, with a focus on transatlantic security and democracy.

This grant provides financial support for Colorado-based artists and organizations to create collaborative projects that use the arts to address pressing social, civic, environmental, and health issues in their communities.

This grant provides financial support to artists and arts organizations in the City of Fairfax to create inclusive and accessible cultural projects that enhance community engagement and artistic expression.

This grant provides funding for master artists in Wyoming to mentor apprentices in traditional crafts, helping to preserve the state's cultural heritage through hands-on instruction.

This funding opportunity supports artists and arts organizations in Upper Manhattan to enhance public cultural presentations and engagement through diverse artistic programming.