cARTwheels Program Grants

The cARTwheels Program Grants are administered by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. This grant initiative supports K–12 public schools and nonprofit arts organizations across North Carolina in providing high-quality arts performances and residencies directly to students. In 2024, the program emphasized building resilience in students through arts-based experiences, highlighting its role in fostering emotional healing, self-reflection, problem-solving, and self-empowerment. The goal is to integrate meaningful arts experiences into the educational environment to support student development and well-being. Grants under the cARTwheels Program specifically fund performances and artist residencies presented during the school day. Funded activities include artistic fees, travel, lodging, meals, and supplies for cARTwheels-approved artists. However, grantees are responsible for all venue-related expenses, such as technical rider requirements and student transportation. The program’s structured approach ensures that schools receive impactful, professionally delivered arts programming that aligns with both curricular goals and the broader educational mission of fostering resilient, creative learners. Eligibility for the grant includes K–12 schools and school districts in North Carolina. Additionally, nonprofit arts organizations may apply if partnered with a local school district. Importantly, applicants to cARTwheels are not allowed to apply for the Arts in Education Artist Residency Grant in the same cycle, preventing overlap in funding requests. This stipulation helps ensure broad distribution of resources and program integrity. The 2024 application cycle opened on January 5 and closed on March 1. The grant program operates on a recurring annual cycle, although specific deadlines may shift slightly each year. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor the North Carolina Arts Council’s website for future updates. Applications typically require coordination between schools and artists, along with logistical planning for scheduling, space use, and required supports for performances or residencies. Evaluation of applications is conducted by the North Carolina Arts Council staff, likely based on the quality of proposed arts programming, alignment with educational objectives, and logistical feasibility. Notification and award timelines are not specified but typically follow several weeks after the application deadline. As the 2024 cycle is closed, the next cycle is expected to open in January 2025, pending confirmation of new dates. For further information or program inquiries, applicants may contact Lizz Wells at the North Carolina Arts Council via email at lizz.wells@dncr.nc.gov or by phone at (919) 814-6515. All program updates, eligibility criteria, and application materials are published through the Council's official website.