The Vermont Arts Council offers the Arts Project Grant to support nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and schools in their efforts to enhance Vermont communities through accessible arts programs. These grants aim to foster equal and widespread participation in the arts by funding projects such as performances, exhibits, public art commissions, creative experiences tailored to specific populations, and accessibility accommodations for people with disabilities. The grant is designed to reach under-resourced and new audiences, ensuring a diverse and inclusive arts landscape throughout the state.

Eligible applicants include Vermont-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, local governments, and municipalities. Organizations that have previously received a Cultural Facilities Grant or an Animating Infrastructure Grant for a different project are also eligible. Groups without tax-exempt status may apply through a fiscal agent that meets the Vermont nonprofit requirements. However, individuals, FY2024-2026 Arts Operating Grant recipients, FY2026 Arts Operating applicants, and organizations seeking duplicate funding from the Vermont Arts Council for the same project are not eligible. Additionally, schools looking to fund artist residencies during the school day should apply for the separate Artists in Schools Grant.

The funding amount for each grant ranges from $1,000 to $4,000, with no required matching funds. The full grant amount will be disbursed upon receipt of a signed contract, completed direct deposit authorization, and W-9 after September 1, 2025. Funded projects must be completed by August 31, 2026. Funding is contingent upon available federal and state resources and is subject to change.

Applications are evaluated based on quality and impact (70%) and project management (30%). A strong application will demonstrate high artistic merit, meaningful community engagement, and efforts to remove barriers for underrepresented populations, such as people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, immigrants, and rural communities. Successful projects should have clear planning, strong leadership, effective outreach strategies, and compliance with accessibility and nondiscrimination policies.

The deadline for submission is May 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Applicants will be notified by the end of July 2025. All applications must be submitted via the Vermont Arts Council’s online granting system. For assistance, applicants can contact Michele Bailey at mbailey@vermontartscouncil.org or 802.402.4614. Questions regarding the online application system should be directed to Meredith Bell at mbell@vermontartscouncil.org or 802.402.4478.

Grant recipients must comply with federal and state nondiscrimination laws, including Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the ADA Amendment Act of 2008. A final report is required within 30 days of project completion, no later than September 30, 2026.