Washington Arts Grants

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers the Community Forests Program to help communities preserve working forest heritage while balancing economic, environmental, and recreational benefits. The program supports land acquisition and complementary restoration and recreation development to keep working forests intact. Typical projects acquire forestland and may include restoration of forest and habitat health and development of recreation facilities such as trails, trailheads, parking, restrooms, campgrounds, picnic and day use areas, challenge courses, and interpretive displays. Restoration activities may include removal of fish barriers and actions that restore forest health. Approximately 3,000,000 dollars is available for awards. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and towns, Native American tribes, nonprofit nature conservancy organizations, special purpose districts and other political subdivisions, and state agencies in partnership with one or more of these groups. All projects must include acquisition; restoration and development cannot be stand alone activities. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state process. Grant size and duration beyond the available pool are not specified. Further information is provided by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

The Ellensburg Arts Commission (EAC) invites artists and organizations to submit funding requests for art projects FOR 2025 within the City of Ellensburg. This grant program, with funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aligns with the EAC's mission to enhance projects that involve community members or organizations in the design, concept, or creation of artwork. The EAC's support aims to foster a vibrant arts community and provide public benefit through artistic endeavors, as grants are part of their annual budget and approved by the City Council. The primary target beneficiaries are individual artists, groups of artists, and arts organizations in the performing or visual arts fields, who are 18 years of age or older. The impact goals include supporting the development of new artwork, facilitating arts-related events, promoting the interpretation of existing artwork, and encouraging the presentation of new artworks or collections. Through these initiatives, the EAC seeks to enrich the cultural landscape of Ellensburg and make art accessible to its residents. The program prioritizes projects based on budget feasibility, the candidate's experience, artistic merit, and public benefit. Funds must be expended for a legitimate municipal purpose, demonstrating a tangible benefit to the community. This includes commissioning or purchasing artwork for public benefit or sponsoring public performances. The EAC places a high priority on programs that best reflect its mission and core values, and directly serve the residents of Ellensburg. Expected outcomes include an increase in community engagement with the arts, the creation of diverse new artworks, and the presentation of various arts-related events. Measurable results could involve the number of projects funded, the reach of public art initiatives, and the number of community members participating in or benefiting from these projects. The EAC also requires acknowledgement of their funding through the inclusion of their logo in publicity and event-related collateral for sponsored projects. The EAC's strategic priorities are rooted in supporting arts programs and projects that merit public funding, recognizing that these grants are supported by public tax dollars. Their theory of change is that by investing in local artists and arts organizations, they can stimulate cultural growth, provide educational opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for Ellensburg residents. Eligible expenses for individual artists are between $1,000 and $2,500 and for arts organizations, they are between $1,000 and $2,500. These expenses include professional development, rental/purchase of materials, and promotional/marketing materials. The program encourages annual applications and emphasizes transparency and accountability, with guidelines such as not considering incomplete forms and potentially requesting a project explanation at an Arts Commission meeting. This structured approach ensures that public funds are utilized effectively to foster artistic expression and community enrichment in Ellensburg.

The City of Kirkland’s Tourism Program is offering the 2025 Event Grant Funding Program, aiming to attract visitors from 50 miles or more to Kirkland. This initiative is designed to bolster Kirkland's tourism environment and sustain the Tourism Program budget through revenues generated from overnight stays. Funds will be allocated for the marketing and operations of special events and festivals specifically crafted to draw tourists to the city, with distribution occurring on a reimbursement basis. The Kirkland Tourism Development Committee (TDC) has earmarked at least $60,000 for 2025, continuing a program that has awarded over $700,000 to tourism events and programs in the past. While new events are looked upon supportively, events with a proven track record of attracting visitors to Kirkland will also receive serious consideration. This strategy ensures both innovation and proven success are factored into the funding decisions. The target beneficiaries are organizations planning special events and festivals in Kirkland that can attract tourists. The impact goal is to increase the number of visitors traveling for business or pleasure who stay overnight in Kirkland, thereby enhancing the local tourism economy. The program prioritizes events that demonstrate a clear potential to draw visitors from outside a 50-mile radius. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism-related activities and revenue in Kirkland. Applicants are required to provide estimates of how the received funds will lead to an increase in the number of visitors. Post-award, organizations are legislatively mandated to report on their success in attracting these visitors. All funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, contingent upon the submission of a Tourism Funding Expenditure Report Worksheet and a Tourism Funding Reimbursement Form, ensuring accountability and measurable results for the program.

The City of Arlington is offering grants to public and non-profit agencies for projects that foster economic development and tourism within the city. This grant program aims to enhance the local economy and promote Arlington as a desirable destination. The funding available for these grants is $175,000, and awards will be allocated proportionally based on application scores, with higher-scoring projects receiving a larger share of the total funding. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are public and non-profit agencies that can demonstrate projects promoting economic growth and tourism. The impact goals are centered around increasing tourism, supporting local events, and improving tourism-related facilities. This will ultimately benefit the City of Arlington by boosting its economy and improving the quality of life for its residents through enhanced amenities and attractions. The program prioritizes several key areas for funding. These include tourism marketing initiatives, the marketing and operations of special events and festivals, the operation of tourism-related facilities owned by non-profit organizations, and the operations and capital expenditures of tourism-related facilities owned by municipalities. These focus areas are designed to directly contribute to the program's overarching goals of economic development and tourism promotion. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism activity, successful execution of special events and festivals, and the improved operation or development of tourism-related infrastructure. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the proportional funding allocation based on points, the requirement for a 25% project cost match indicates a commitment to projects with significant investment and potential for impact. Applicants are expected to provide details that will allow for the evaluation of the proposed project's benefits.

The Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF) Capacity-Building Grant program is designed to strengthen the organizational effectiveness of nonprofits operating on Whidbey Island. This aligns directly with WCF's mission to support the foundational strength of these organizations, believing that robust internal capacity directly translates to more effective programs and services for the community. The grants are specifically for one-time projects that address an organization's strategic plan to improve management, governance, and administration, rather than funding direct programmatic improvements. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofits with charitable status or purpose on Whidbey Island. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of these organizations. By investing in internal capacity, WCF aims to create a ripple effect, where stronger organizations are better equipped to serve their own beneficiaries and achieve their missions more effectively. The program prioritizes projects that contribute to an organization's long-term health and efficiency. Specific areas of focus include evaluation of core programs, staff or board training, assessment and implementation of technology upgrades, various types of planning (HR, succession, fundraising, financial sustainability), merger planning, and the development and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Projects that are not eligible include operating costs (other than those related to the capacity-building project), expansion of existing programs, creation of new programs, brick-and-mortar projects, endowment campaigns, pass-through grants, or grants to cover lost funding or budget deficits. Expected outcomes include improved organizational management, enhanced governance structures, and more efficient administrative processes. Measurable results could include, for example, a successfully implemented new technology system, a completed strategic HR plan, or a more diverse and inclusive board following training and policy development. The foundation's strategic priority is rooted in a theory of change that posits by strengthening the internal capacity of its grantees, WCF indirectly but powerfully strengthens the vital programs and services these nonprofits provide to the Whidbey Island community. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, with most falling between $1,000 and $5,000, and the deadline for applications is August 31, 2024.

The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA) is currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Creative Sector Flex Fund (CSFF). This grant program aims to provide flexible support to eligible applicants that offer consistent annual artistic programming and/or arts services within Pennsylvania. The fund is designed to bolster the administrative, programmatic, and project-related expenses of arts organizations, aligning with the PCA's mission to support and strengthen the arts community across the state. This initiative reflects the PCA's strategic priority of fostering a vibrant and sustainable creative sector by providing direct financial assistance where it's most needed. The primary beneficiaries of the CSFF are nonprofit, tax-exempt corporations, or units of local government in Pennsylvania that demonstrate a history of at least two years of consistent arts programming. Pre-K-12 public, private, and parochial schools are not eligible, but are directed to other PCA opportunities. The fund targets organizations with an annual average arts revenue between $10,000 and $200,000. The impact goal is to ensure the continued delivery of artistic programming and services to communities throughout Pennsylvania, thereby enriching the cultural landscape and supporting the economic viability of the arts sector. The program prioritizes flexibility, allowing funds to be used for a wide range of needs, including administrative costs, program development, and specific project expenses. This approach is rooted in the understanding that a resilient arts sector requires adaptable support. While annual grants are not guaranteed and are dependent on the PCA's budget, the expected outcome is that successful applicants will be able to maintain or expand their artistic offerings, reach broader audiences, and continue to contribute to the cultural and economic well-being of Pennsylvania. Measurable results would include the number of organizations supported, the scope and reach of the artistic programming delivered, and the overall stability of the recipient organizations. By investing in these entities, the PCA's theory of change posits that targeted financial support will lead to a more robust, diverse, and accessible arts environment, ultimately benefiting all Pennsylvanians. The project period for this grant is January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025, with a grant size ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, typically set at $5,000 per applicant.

This program provides financial support to non-profit organizations and school districts in Grays Harbor County for initiatives that benefit youth, focusing on creating or enhancing programs for children aged 18 and under.

The Historic Downtown Kennewick Partnership, in collaboration with the City of Kennewick’s Community Development Department, has relaunched the Downtown Kennewick Façade Improvement Grant Program. This initiative aims to enhance the visual appeal of downtown Kennewick by fostering a cohesive image, promoting coordinated signage and store graphics, and complementing existing building façades. The program offers grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, with up to $25,000 per storefront, to support improvements. This program aligns with the broader mission of revitalizing and developing the downtown area, contributing to economic growth and community pride. The primary beneficiaries of this program are property owners and businesses within the designated target area of downtown Kennewick. The impact goals are centered on creating a more attractive and vibrant downtown environment, which in turn is expected to draw more visitors and customers, stimulate local commerce, and encourage further investment in the area. By improving the aesthetics of storefronts, the program directly addresses the need for a unified and appealing commercial district. The program prioritizes eligible improvements such as cleaning and painting, new awnings, canopies, and signs, gutters and downspouts, exterior wall repairs, building-mounted lighting, door and window repairs and replacements, and accessibility improvements. A key focus is on ensuring projects comply with the City of Kennewick Façade Improvement Program Underwriting Guidelines and are evaluated for consistency with an approved color palette by the Historic Downtown Kennewick Partnership’s Design Committee. The committee specifically encourages a sophisticated and restrained application of color, using vibrant hues for highlights and trim, and softer tones for main building elements. Expected outcomes include a visibly improved downtown area with enhanced curb appeal and a more unified architectural style. Measurable results will likely involve the number of storefronts that undergo renovations, the total investment leveraged by the grants, and potentially increased foot traffic or business activity in the revitalized areas. The underlying theory of change is that by investing in physical improvements and enhancing the aesthetic quality of downtown façades, the program will create a more inviting and economically dynamic environment, leading to increased community engagement and sustained revitalization efforts. The program’s strategic priorities are clearly focused on visual improvement and adherence to design guidelines to achieve these broader community development goals.

The City of Gig Harbor is offering 2025 Lodging Tax Grants to foster tourism and economic activity within its limits. This program is funded by a percentage of hotel/motel taxes collected from lodging establishments, with funds distributed by the Department of Revenue back to the City. These grants are specifically allocated for tourism-related capital facilities, non-event operations, and event marketing and operations, aligning with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Chapter 67.28, which details the use and reporting of tourism funds. The target beneficiaries for this program are non-profit organizations and municipalities that can demonstrate the ability to achieve specific tourism-related goals. The primary impact goals are to increase hotel/lodging occupancy within the City of Gig Harbor by generating overnight stays and to increase the number of visitors traveling more than 50 miles away to the city. All applicants are required to provide estimates on how their proposed activities will lead to these increases, including attracting visitors from other states or countries. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around maximizing tourism promotion and its economic impact. "Tourism" is defined as economic activity from tourists, encompassing sales of lodging, meals, tours, gifts, or souvenirs. "Tourism promotion" includes activities like advertising, publicizing, developing strategies to expand tourism, and operating special events and festivals designed to attract tourists. "Tourism-related facilities" are properties with a usable life of three or more years that support tourism, performing arts, or accommodate tourist activities. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee considers various factors when making recommendations, including the estimated available funds, proposal thoroughness, financial stability of the applicant, and projected economic impact, particularly on overnight stays. Expected outcomes and measurable results are central to the grant program. Applicants must explicitly detail how their activities will result in increased overnight stays and an influx of visitors from over 50 miles away, or from outside the state/country. The City requires this data to be collected and provided in the lodging tax application. The Committee’s considerations, such as the projected economic impact and the applicant’s history of tourism promotion success, underscore the emphasis on tangible, positive results directly related to tourism growth and economic benefit for Gig Harbor.

This funding program provides financial support to community-based organizations in the Pacific Northwest working to address environmental justice and public health challenges in historically underinvested communities.

The Riverside Small & Micro Business Grant Program is a City of Riverside initiative designed to foster local small business resiliency by offering grant awards of up to $25,000 to qualified businesses. This program aligns with a mission to support long-term economic stability and growth within the community, addressing not only ongoing pandemic recovery needs but also promoting access to valuable partner resources. The program's foundation is rooted in the Department of Treasury State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF), demonstrating a commitment to enhancing financial stability for small businesses. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are small and micro businesses located within Riverside city limits, particularly those in disadvantaged communities. The program focuses on businesses with under 50 employees, an annual gross revenue between $10,000 and $2,500,000, and those that can demonstrate a COVID-19 financial impact. By targeting these specific businesses, the program aims to reduce barriers to success and promote equitable economic development. A key priority of the Riverside Small & Micro Business Grant Program is to offer direct financial support, with grant sizes ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Beyond monetary aid, the program also emphasizes capacity building through a FREE one-on-one Strategic Planning Consultation. These consultations are designed to help applicants identify opportunities for improvement, develop customized strategies for increased financial stability, and build long-term sustainability. The focus is on holistic support, extending beyond immediate financial relief to include strategic planning and resource connection. The expected outcomes of this program include enhanced financial stability, long-term sustainability, and increased capacity for success among Riverside's small and micro businesses. Measurable results will likely stem from the improved financial health of participating businesses, their ability to sustain operations, and their growth within the community. The program's strategic priorities are centered on recovery, resiliency, and growth, operating under a theory of change that postulates that by providing financial assistance and strategic guidance, small businesses will be better equipped to overcome challenges, thrive, and contribute to the local economy.

The NGLCC Community Impact Grant Program, supported by the Grubhub Community Fund, offers crucial financial assistance to LGBTQ+-owned and allied restaurants, cafes, bars serving food, and other eating establishments. This initiative aligns with the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce's mission to promote economic growth and well-being within the LGBTQ+ business community. By providing grants, the program helps sustain and strengthen these businesses, contributing to the overall economic vitality of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and allies. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are LGBTQ+-owned and LGBTQ+ ally-owned restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve food. The program aims to provide a financial lifeline to these establishments, helping them navigate economic challenges and fostering their continued operation and success. The impact goal is to ensure the resilience and growth of these businesses, which often serve as vital community hubs and safe spaces. The program's priorities and focus are clear: supporting establishments that identify as LGBTQ+-owned or ally-owned, with a specific emphasis on those in the food service industry. Eligibility requirements include providing proof of LGBTQ+ or allied ownership and not having received two or more NGLCC Community Impact Grants in previous years. This ensures that the grants reach a diverse range of businesses in need and are distributed equitably. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation and potential growth of recipient businesses, increased financial stability, and enhanced capacity to serve their communities. Measurable results could include the number of businesses supported, the average grant amount disbursed, and qualitative feedback from recipients on how the funding has positively impacted their operations and local communities. The grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, providing substantial support to individual establishments. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in the belief that direct financial investment in LGBTQ+ and allied businesses creates a ripple effect of positive economic and social impact. By bolstering these enterprises, the program contributes to job creation, local economic development, and the overall empowerment of the LGBTQ+ community. This targeted approach ensures that resources are directed where they can have the most significant and immediate benefit, reinforcing the NGLCC's commitment to a thriving LGBTQ+ business ecosystem.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government agencies in Mansfield for innovative projects that improve community services in areas like arts, education, health, and the environment.

COMMUNITY HEART & SOUL GRANT GUIDELINES TIMELINE Application Cycle: April 11, 2024 – August 16, 2024 Introductory Webinars: April 11 and 25, 2024 "Getting Started" Webinars: May 16, June 20, July 18, 2024 Grant Period: October 1, 2024 – August 31, 2026 Final Reports Due: September 15, 2026 PROGRAM DETAILS Innovia Foundation's Community Heart & Soul® Program aims to empower rural communities through resident-driven processes and action in Eastern Washington and North Idaho. Benefits include increased community involvement, volunteerism, and economic development. The approach is based on three principles: INVOLVE EVERYONE, FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS MOST, and PLAY THE LONG GAME. Grants of $30,000 each, with a $10,000 local match, will support community projects over two years. NONDISCRIMINATION/ANTI-HATE POLICY Innovia Foundation strictly prohibits funding organizations engaged in hateful activities or discrimination. Applicants must adhere to these standards. QUESTIONS? Contact Jennifer Stapleton at 509.624.2606.

This grant provides funding for full-time graduate students in the Western U.S. to collaborate with their academic advisors and local producers on projects that promote sustainable agriculture through research and education.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and agencies that address community needs in the Methow Valley, with options for both unrestricted operating support and program-specific funding.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit performing arts organizations in Washington, focusing on innovative theatre and dance projects that foster community and train emerging artists.

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation strives to better the human condition by supporting programs and services that give people the tools to enhance the quality of their lives and to benefit society as a whole. The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation funds direct service non-profit organizations to improve the quality of people’s lives by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Since its inception in 1988, the Foundation has funded programs around Montana and in the areas in which the Washington Companies operate. When making a grant decision, we examine each organization’s financial stability, staffing and facility capacity, and relevant partnerships. Additionally, we assess the capability of an organization to sustain a program into the future and their ability to show measurable impact on the population they serve. Finally, funding is guided toward organizations that support low income, rural, and underserved populations through one of our four main focus areas: Education, Health and Human Services, Arts and Culture, and Community Service.

The Washington State Department of Commerce is offering a grant program to fund retrofitting existing facilities and related projects that aim to achieve energy and operational cost savings. The program is specifically designed to support public entities in Washington State. While the document does not explicitly state the Department of Commerce's broader mission or theory of change, it can be inferred that this grant aligns with a strategic priority to promote energy efficiency, reduce operational costs for public infrastructure, and contribute to environmental sustainability within the state. The program seeks to empower public agencies to invest in critical upgrades that benefit both their operational budgets and the broader community through reduced energy consumption. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are public entities within Washington State. This includes local agencies such as cities, towns, counties, special districts, municipal corporations, port districts, and authorities. Additionally, public higher education institutions, K-12 public school districts, state agencies, and federally-recognized tribes located within Washington are eligible to apply. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the energy efficiency of public facilities across the state, leading to long-term operational cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint. By investing in these entities, the program aims to create more sustainable and fiscally responsible public infrastructure. The grant program prioritizes a range of eligible activities focused on improving facility energy efficiency. These include, but are not limited to, HVAC replacement or upgrades, improvements to other mechanical systems, lighting enhancements, insulation upgrades, window replacements, and the purchase and installation of heat pump and geothermal heating systems. The program also supports broader campus or district energy efficiency measures. These priorities directly address the core objective of achieving significant energy and operational cost savings through tangible infrastructure improvements. The focus is on implementing proven technologies and strategies that yield measurable reductions in energy consumption. Expected outcomes of this grant program include a noticeable reduction in energy consumption and associated operational costs for public facilities throughout Washington State. Measurable results would likely include documented energy savings (e.g., kilowatt-hours saved, therms saved), reduced utility expenses, and potentially a decrease in carbon emissions. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "energy and operational cost savings" suggests a clear intention for quantifiable improvements. The grant's increased cap to $1 million, with a minimum project size of $100,000, indicates a commitment to funding substantial projects that can deliver significant and lasting impacts across the state's public infrastructure.