Creative Space Access Grant Program

The Creative Space Access Grant Program is administered by the High Point Arts Council, a community-based arts organization dedicated to supporting and expanding access to the arts within Guilford County, North Carolina. The program is designed to strengthen the local creative economy and cultural ecosystem by removing financial barriers that often prevent artists and arts organizations from accessing professional space. By offering in-kind venue access at Centennial Station Arts Center, the Council seeks to foster artistic innovation, encourage collaboration, and create inclusive opportunities for community engagement. The primary purpose of the program is to provide no-cost or low-cost access to performance, rehearsal, exhibition, and workspace environments for artists, collectives, and nonprofit arts organizations. The grant supports a range of artistic activities including performances, workshops, exhibitions, presentations, rehearsals, and public programming. In addition to space access, participants benefit from structured support such as orientation, a dedicated staff liaison, and optional technical services including lighting and sound, which are available through approved contractors at a fixed hourly rate. While the program does not provide direct financial awards, it offers substantial in-kind support that reduces overhead costs for creative production. Eligible applicants include individual artists aged 21 and older, art collectives or partnerships, and 501(c)(3) arts and culture organizations located in Guilford County. Applicants must demonstrate an established artistic practice and a commitment to community engagement. Proposed projects must be accessible to the general public and clearly demonstrate community impact, particularly in expanding access to the arts. The program prioritizes equity by encouraging participation from underrepresented and marginalized artists. Organizations that already receive in-kind support from the High Point Arts Council are not eligible to apply. The application process is conducted online and operates on a rolling review basis, though a firm deadline of June 30, 2026 applies for the 2027 program cycle. Applications are evaluated by a panel of artists and community members based on artistic merit, alignment with the Council’s mission, community relevance, and feasibility within the available space. Applicants are encouraged to apply at least three months prior to their proposed project dates to allow adequate time for review and scheduling. Space availability is ultimately determined by High Point Arts Council staff. Awarded participants must comply with program guidelines governing facility use, including adherence to operational hours, restrictions on access to administrative areas, and requirements for advance requests for equipment such as tables and chairs. All promotional materials must acknowledge the High Point Arts Council. Projects that are religious or political in nature are not eligible. Additionally, grantees must uphold non-discrimination policies in all public-facing activities conducted within the space. The grant period covers activities scheduled between January and December 2027, excluding holidays, peak rental periods, and pre-booked dates. Selected grantees are expected to participate in community-oriented programming such as open studios, workshops, or final presentations. Applicants who are not selected may reapply in future cycles, though awarded grantees are not permitted to receive funding in consecutive years. For additional information or inquiries, applicants may contact the Executive Director via the provided email address.

Emphasize clear community impact in Guilford County, align proposal with HPAC mission, and demonstrate realistic use of space and engagement activities