What is an art grant?

A sum of money offered to an individual or organization to fund a particular purpose – such as an arts event, an art project, or living support so the person/persons are free to concentrate on a body of work.

What happens after I submit my grant proposal?

After the deadline arrives, all grants are checked by the ARAC staff to be sure they qualify and everything is in order, after which the grants are released electronically to the review panel, where they review and do initial scoring. Next, we have a review panel meeting where each grant application is reviewed and discussed followed by official scoring. At the end of the meeting the computer system tallies all scoring. The final step in the grant process is the board voting on each grant on the basis of the review panel recommendations. This entire cycle takes approximately 6-8 weeks.

What happens after I apply?

1. The staff reviews all applications and materials for completeness and eligibility. 

2. Eligible applications are reviewed by a panel of Board and community members, and the panel’s recommendations are approved by the full Board of ARAC. All applicants will be notified of the panel meeting and are allowed to observe the proceedings. All board and panel meetings are open to the public. Reviewers read grant applications in advance, so each proposal may not be discussed in detail at the meeting, but attendance is recommended so that applicants can understand how their application is received. Applicants are not allowed to address the review panel.  

3. Applicants will be notified via email of the Board’s decision within fourteen days of the board grant review. Successful applicants will receive a contract and a final report form. The final report must be completed and submitted within thirty days of completion of the project. Applicants are responsible for updating ARAC in writing of any major changes to their proposed project. 

4. The Board’s funding decisions may be appealed solely on alleged procedural errors. An applicant must request an appeal within thirty days of notification of the Board decision. A board subcommittee, consisting of at least three members appointed by the ARAC chair, will consider any appeals. The subcommittee reports its findings and recommendations to the full ARAC Board for action.

What happens after I’m awarded a grant?

• You will be contacted via email after board approval. In that email, you will receive a letter confirming the funding as well as your grant contract and next steps. (You will receive a hard copy as well.)

• Once you have signed your contract you will need to complete a project confirmation form in the Foundant system and provide us with either your social security number or EIN number, then a check is cut and sent. Note: the checks go out based on your start date and whether you have completed the forms.

• Now you are free to focus on your project!

• If you have changes that arise during your project you can reach out to grants@aracouncil.org for approval, or for help in pivoting your project while keeping your goals in mind.

• The final step is the final report. You must complete a final report for your project in order to be eligible for future grant submissions.

How many ARAC Grants can an INDIVIDUAL receive in one year?

In a single ARAC fiscal year (July 1-June 30), you may receive one grant from each eligible program, as long as they are each for separate projects.

What is an Artist Statement?

• Describe your work. (WHAT)

• Describe the process used to create the work. (HOW)

• Describe why you create the work. (WHY)

• Describe how your work is evolving. What are you working on? (GOALS)

What Kind of Things are INELIGIBLE for Funding?

• The project attempts to influence any state or federal legislation

• The request includes making improvements to the applicant’s private property

• The project requires excessive entry or exhibition fees, including tuition, fees, or work toward a degree

• The project primarily involves developing school curriculum plans or teaching materials

• The project is primarily intended to support teaching-related activities that will advance your teaching career

• The project promotes religious socialization

• The project was once supported by state general fund appropriations

• The activity involves out-of-state travel (except for Professional Development Small Grant)

• The project is designed for a private audience and is not open to the general public

• The project is for capital improvement or construction

• The funds are requested to purchase more than $600 worth of equipment or to purchase real property
  (for Organizations)

• The funds are requested for general operating support (except for our Operating Support Grant)

• The funds are requested for a project that serves as a benefit or fundraiser