The Illinois Arts Council’s (IAC) Creative Accelerator Fund (CAF) offers a $10,000 taxable award to individual artists to support their professional growth and contribute to the creative workforce in Illinois. The fund recognizes the important role that artists play in fostering cultural and economic vitality within their communities. By providing financial assistance, the CAF aims to bolster the artists' practices, encourage community engagement, and promote a vibrant cultural environment throughout the state.

Eligible applicants must be individual artists with an active, sustained practice. At the time of application, artists must be at least 21 years old, established residents of Illinois since before November 20, 2023, and able to provide work samples created between 2021 and 2024. Full-time students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs are not eligible, though Ph.D. candidates who have completed their coursework by the application deadline may apply.

The application process requires submission via the IAC Salesforce account, with a deadline of 11:59 p.m. on November 20, 2024. Applicants should ensure all materials are complete and adhere to the eligibility requirements. Artists are encouraged to read the CAF guidelines thoroughly and seek assistance through webinars, drop-in sessions, or by contacting a Program Director.

Recipients will be selected randomly, with allocations distributed across IAC regions. This randomized approach aims to provide equitable access to funding for artists throughout Illinois. The selection process will consider whether applicants have an active practice, complete applications, and meet eligibility criteria to receive state funds.