Community Arts Project Grant

The Community Arts Project Grant, formerly known as the Collaborative Project Support Grant, is a funding opportunity managed by the Arkansas Arts Council, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. This grant supports community-centered arts initiatives designed to increase access to the arts, particularly among underserved and distinct populations, including those residing in rural or otherwise underrepresented areas of Arkansas. The new title reflects an enhanced focus on community engagement through arts-based events and projects that foster inclusivity and accessibility. This grant assists with expenses directly related to the planning and execution of public arts programming, including performing arts events, visual art exhibitions, literary festivals, and other multidisciplinary projects. The intent is to either create new arts initiatives or expand existing programs to reach broader or more marginalized audiences. The funding is available for events occurring within the Arkansas state fiscal year, from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and all applications must be submitted at least 60 days before the planned event date. Eligible applicants may request between $1,000 and $10,000 per project. Each award requires a one-to-one match from the applicant, which may include both cash and in-kind contributions, with at least half of the matching funds required to be in cash. The grant operates on a rolling basis and is reviewed by staff on a first-come, first-served basis until available funding is exhausted. Each organization is permitted to receive only one Community Arts Project Grant per fiscal year. Evaluation of proposals is conducted internally by staff reviewers, and funding decisions are contingent on both the quality of the application and the availability of funds. The emphasis is on projects that demonstrate clear community benefit and outreach to underserved groups, making it critical for applicants to clearly articulate both the scope of their artistic activity and the population it intends to serve. The Community Arts Project Grant will reopen for new applications in August 2026. Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to prepare well in advance, ensuring that proposed events align with the grant’s criteria and that all materials are submitted in accordance with the required 60-day lead time before the event date. Additional guidance may be obtained through direct contact with Arkansas Arts Council staff.

Submit early to ensure consideration before funds are depleted; ensure at least 50% of match is in cash