General Operating Support Grant

The General Operating Support (GOS) program, administered by the Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA), is the Commission’s largest funding initiative, designed to bolster the sustainability of medium and large arts organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. The program seeks to invest in institutions committed to artistic excellence, operational stability, and community engagement. By providing non-restricted operating funds, the VCA aims to support these organizations in continuing, expanding, and enriching arts experiences for residents across Virginia. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organizations incorporated in Virginia, with their headquarters and primary performance season based in the state. Organizations must demonstrate a minimum of three years of completed programming and have an unrestricted operating income of at least $150,000 in the previous fiscal year. Other requirements include presenting at least three public-facing programs annually, operating in ADA-compliant venues, and maintaining a governing Board that meets regularly. Units of government, educational institutions, and organizations using fiscal agents are not eligible. First-time applicants are required to consult with VCA staff prior to submission to confirm eligibility. Funds awarded through this program may be used for a broad array of operational needs such as artist fees, administrative and personnel costs, technical and marketing services, accessibility support, supplies, and domestic travel. However, capital expenses are not eligible. The minimum award is $3,500, with the maximum award set at 10% of the organization’s prior year’s unrestricted operating income (net of certain deductions), although most organizations will receive less than the maximum. The program prioritizes support for organizations that compensate artists and maintain year-round operations. Applications are submitted online through the VCA’s Foundant system and are due by 5:00 p.m. EST on February 1, 2025 (Short Form) or March 1, 2025 (Long Form), covering expenses for the period July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Application components include a completed income worksheet, certification forms, budget documents, artistic samples, staff and board lists, and financial statements. Applications are reviewed for completeness and then evaluated by a peer Advisory Panel based on criteria of Artistic Excellence (30%), Operational Excellence (30%), and Community Engagement and Access (40%). The grant review process involves VCA staff review, followed by independent assessments by Advisory Panelists and group discussions. Final funding decisions are made by the Commission Board, pending budget approval by the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. Notification of awards is typically sent by email after the Commission Board vote, and disbursements are expected by mid-to-late August 2025. Grantees must submit a two-part Final Report: a narrative by June 1, 2026, and financials by October 1, 2026. The program does not recur automatically; applicants must reapply annually. However, its recurring nature and annual timeline indicate that it is issued each year, suggesting that the next expected cycle will open in February or March 2026.

Prioritize clear articulation of mission, financial transparency, and community engagement. Ensure ADA compliance and compensation of artists.