The Shakespeare in American Communities: Juvenile Justice program provides grants ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 to nonprofit theater companies based in the United States or Native Nations. These grants aim to support educational theater programs designed for young people involved in the juvenile justice system. Eligible programs should focus on engaging participants with Shakespeare’s works, making connections to contemporary contexts, and incorporating frequent, meaningful interactions over a significant period. Grant funding for the 2025-2026 cycle does not require matching funds, and program activities must occur between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.

This opportunity is open to 501(c)(3) professional theater organizations with at least two years of experience partnering with juvenile justice facilities to provide theater education. Eligible facilities include detention centers, correctional institutions, and other court-appointed programs. Programs must involve at least two teaching artists or equivalent staff with expertise in theater and experience in justice system contexts. Additional requirements include compliance with federal eligibility standards, maintaining a current Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) through SAM.gov by April 2025, and addressing program accessibility.

Key components of eligible projects include workshops, seminars, and residencies that deeply explore Shakespeare’s texts. Activities may be in-person or virtual and must cater to youth ages 17 and under who are involved in the justice system. Applicants should plan for professional development opportunities through participation in Arts Midwest convenings, including one in-person event in Minnesota during the grant cycle. The program encourages applicants from organizations of all sizes and operating budgets, including first-time applicants.

The application process involves two main steps: submitting an Intent to Apply form by January 30, 2025, and completing the full application by February 13, 2025. Applicants must provide details about their organization, the proposed project, and anticipated outcomes. Narratives should address the organization’s history, the artistic and educational merits of their programming, audience engagement strategies, and contingency plans for challenges in working with the justice system. The budget should focus on eligible expenses like artist fees, production costs, and travel, while excluding prohibited costs such as refreshments, capital equipment, and fundraising events.

Applications are reviewed by an independent panel using criteria such as artistic excellence, audience engagement, planning effectiveness, and resource management. Award notifications will be sent in May 2025. Successful grantees must complete periodic reporting, including a preliminary activity listing 30 days before project initiation and a final report 30 days after project conclusion.

Arts Midwest provides resources to support applicants, including office hours with grants officers and accessible materials. Interested organizations are encouraged to contact Arts Midwest for assistance, register on the SmartSimple platform, and download the detailed guidelines for additional information.