The Equity Grants for Individual Artists program for FY 2025, administered by ArtsBuild, is focused on supporting artists living with disabilities in Hamilton County, Tennessee. The program provides equitable access to arts funding, encouraging participation from artists who have historically been excluded. Artists with disabilities, as broadly defined, are encouraged to apply, including those with cognitive, learning, emotional, mental health, developmental, or physical disabilities. The program also invites applicants who identify with other marginalized groups, such as women, people of color, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Grant funding is available in three categories: Artist Work, Equipment, and Professional Development. Eligible expenses include artist fees, supplies, equipment, marketing, production costs, documentation, and professional development activities such as workshops, conferences, and residencies. Grants can be awarded for up to $10,000, with funding disbursed in two installments: 75% up front and 25% after the project is completed and a final report is submitted. The grant period runs from January 9, 2025, to December 9, 2025.

Eligibility:

Artists must be aged 18 or older, live with a disability, and reside in Hamilton County, Tennessee.
Both emerging and established artists are eligible to apply.
Artists who have already received funding through this program are not eligible to reapply.
The application period runs from September 18, 2024, to October 30, 2024, with draft reviews accepted until October 23, 2024. The application process includes submission of a project narrative, budget, and documentation related to the proposed project. Applications are reviewed based on the strength of the proposal, clear project outcomes, realistic timelines, appropriate budgets, and plans for documentation and assessment.

For assistance or consultation, applicants can contact Melissa Astin, the Manager of Grants & Community Engagement, at (423) 777-4214 or Melissa@ArtsBuild.com​.