Shubert Foundation Grants

The Shubert Foundation provides general operating support grants to not-for-profit, professional theatres in the United States. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with a record of artistic excellence, community service, fiscal responsibility, and the development of new work. Evaluation is conducted with consideration of the organization's size and resources, and artistic activity and fiscal soundness are critical to the assessment. This opportunity is specifically designed to strengthen the infrastructure and sustainability of professional theatres, rather than fund specific projects. Founded with a mission to sustain and advance live performing arts, the Foundation focuses on supporting institutions with long-standing professional practices. It excludes community theatres, comedy venues, and improvisational theatres. Eligible applicants must be registered U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a verifiable history of operations and financial integrity. The grants are strictly for general operating support; capital projects, endowment funds, project-specific initiatives, or individuals are ineligible. Applications must be submitted through the Foundation's official online system. Only one application per organization is allowed per cycle. The application process involves two steps: submission of the primary application form by December 4, 2025 (6pm ET), and submission of appropriate financial statements by February 3, 2026 (6pm ET). Financial documentation requirements vary by budget size. Organizations with expenses up to $1 million may submit an IRS 990, accountant's review, or independent audit report, whereas organizations with budgets over $1 million must submit an independent audit. Drafts or unsigned documents are not accepted, and 990-N postcards are disallowed. Minimum annual operating expenses of $150,000 (excluding in-kind contributions) are required, and organizations must demonstrate that artists are compensated. The Foundation does not accept letters of inquiry, incomplete submissions, or applications from fiscally sponsored groups. Financial statements must adhere to GAAP and be certified by a CPA. Applicants are advised to consult the Foundation directly for clarifications about category, criteria, or deadlines if information is not covered on the website. The grant program operates on an annual cycle. Organizations with fiscal years ending January–August must submit Fiscal Year 2025 documents, while those with September–December year-ends must submit Fiscal Year 2024 records. The Foundation will host a webinar for new theatre applicants on November 12, and eligibility closes 48 hours before the application deadline. Applications received after the posted deadlines or submitted with incomplete documentation will not be considered.

Ensure financial statements are signed and conform to GAAP. Avoid submitting incomplete applications or ineligible documents like 990-N postcards.