The Shubert Foundation offers general operating support grants to not-for-profit professional theaters across the United States, with a focus on those that contribute meaningfully to the field of American theater. Each grant applicant undergoes an individualized evaluation that considers the theater’s unique scale and resources. Key assessment areas include artistic contributions, service to the community, and the theater's dedication to developing new works. The Foundation also emphasizes an applicant’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, viewing these as essential to an organization’s overall impact and alignment with its values. Only organizations classified as professional theaters are eligible; community theaters, improv troupes, and comedy venues are explicitly excluded from funding.

These grants are intended solely for general operating expenses, not for specific projects, capital campaigns, or endowments, nor for individuals or intermediary organizations. The Foundation specifies that only U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status can apply, and applicants are expected to demonstrate both fiscal responsibility and an established history of professional activity. Complete financial statements, prepared by a certified public accountant and compliant with standard accounting principles, are required from all applicants, depending on the fiscal year’s end date. Financial documentation requirements differ based on budget size; theaters with annual expenses above $750,000 must submit a full independent audit, while those with expenses of $750,000 or less may submit an IRS Form 990, an accountant’s review, or an independent audit report.

Eligible organizations must submit their application online through the Shubert Foundation’s application portal, adhering to specified deadlines. For the 2024-25 cycle, the deadline for application submission is December 4, 2024, by 6:00 p.m. ET, with financial statements due by February 4, 2025, also by 6:00 p.m. ET. Applications that are incomplete, contain draft or unsigned documents, or are missing required information will not be considered. The Foundation does not accept letters of inquiry or materials from organizations that are fiscally sponsored.

Evaluation criteria include several factors: the applicant’s record of artistic activity, their programs' impact, success in developing new work, commitment to underserved or underrepresented communities, fiscal responsibility, and the ability to generate income through earned and contributed sources. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their organization’s budget meets the minimum threshold of $150,000, exclusive of in-kind contributions.

Questions regarding funding criteria, application categories, or audit requirements that are not covered in the Foundation’s guidelines can be directed to the Foundation. Additional information about recently funded organizations is available for review, which may help prospective applicants understand the types of theaters previously awarded.

The Foundation makes it clear that applications must be complete, including accurate and final financial documents, as late or incomplete submissions will not be considered. The Shubert Foundation also does not permit applications from fiscally sponsored entities or the submission of financial reviews, compilations, or drafts, maintaining strict standards for the supporting financial documentation required for application completion.