The 2025 Round 1 Individual Artist Grant from The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes supports the creation of new artwork by individual artists residing in Cattaraugus, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, or Tioga counties. With funding up to $3,000 per grant, this program aims to elevate artists’ contributions to the community while engaging the public through either participation in the creation process or a public presentation.

Eligibility is open to individual artists over 18 who are not enrolled in full-time degree programs. Projects must take place in the applicant's county of residence and conclude by December 31, 2025. Funds cannot be used for commercial arts, entertainment arts, martial arts, or projects primarily benefitting an individual’s or organization’s financial gain. Additional funding conditions prohibit spending more than $1,000 on equipment or covering ineligible expenses such as cash prizes, awards, and out-of-state travel.

The application deadline is December 13, 2024, at 11:59 p.m., submitted online through The ARTS Council's portal. Applications require artist information, project description, budget details, biographies, work samples, and partnership letters (if relevant). Funding decisions are based on artistic merit, public engagement, and managerial competence, with additional consideration given to projects involving BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, or traditional arts and innovative engagement strategies. Applicants will be notified by early February 2025, and funds are distributed after acceptance agreements are signed.