The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) offers a variety of arts grants to support projects and programs that promote artistic development in its service region, covering the counties of Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. To apply, applicants must reside within these counties. This regional focus ensures that the grants support local artistic initiatives and community engagement. In the case of college students, either their home address or the institution they attend must be located in the region.

There are four main categories of grants available through the NWMAC: Arts Grants for Governmental Entities and Non-Profits, Arts Grants for Schools, Arts Grants for Non-Profit Arts Organizations, and Individual Artist Grants. These grants aim to foster a wide range of artistic activities, including visual arts, theater, dance, music, literary arts, and more. Projects must have a direct impact within the designated region, and activities funded under these grants should enhance the local arts scene by supporting local artists, resources, and audiences.

Applicants are required to demonstrate eligibility, including tax-exempt status for organizations or residency in the region for individual artists. In many cases, a minimum cash match of 10% of the total project cost is required, though repeat sponsorships and some school grants may have a higher match requirement of 25%. Funding may be used for various eligible expenses such as artist fees, project-specific promotional costs, equipment for schools, and administrative services. However, the grants are not intended for general operating support or for projects outside the region.

The application process is highly structured, with annual deadlines and three main grant rounds each fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). Deadlines for arts project grants are August 1, November 1, and March 1, with schools applying for equipment grants by November 1. Applications must be submitted online, and applicants are encouraged to consult with the Arts Council early in the planning stages to receive guidance. Pre-reviews of applications are available to ensure completeness and accuracy, although this does not guarantee funding.

All applications are evaluated based on artistic merit, community need, and the organization's ability to complete the project. Funding decisions are made based on these criteria, and grants are awarded based on the availability of funds. Successful applicants must comply with the terms outlined in the grant contract, including submitting a final report within 60 days of project completion. This report must include a financial statement, evaluation, and documentation of the project’s public impact.

This grant program provides essential support for artists and arts organizations in northwestern Minnesota, fostering artistic growth and increasing access to the arts across the region.