The 2025 Community Connections: Southeast Arts Project Grant is a community arts funding initiative administered by Arts United and made possible by support from NIPSCO and the NiSource Charitable Foundation. The grant is specifically designed to serve residents of the southeast quadrant of Fort Wayne, Indiana. It aims to enhance community pride, strengthen neighborhood relationships, support community development efforts, and celebrate the cultural history of the area through engaging arts experiences.

Projects eligible for funding include a broad range of arts and culture initiatives such as annual festivals, classes in the visual and performing arts, cultural celebrations, interactive arts programs, and public art installations. The intent is to bring together members of the community through shared creative expression that reflects the identity and spirit of the neighborhood. While outside organizations may participate in a project, only applicants located within the southeast quadrant are eligible to apply.

Applicants can request between $500 and $5,000 to support their arts and culture project. Allowable expenses include artist fees, space and equipment rentals, marketing materials, and materials and supplies directly related to the project. Funding cannot be used for alcoholic beverages, lobbying, political or religious activities. Grant recipients must complete their projects and expend all funds between June 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026. A final summary of project completion is required by June 14, 2026.

Eligible applicants include individuals, nonprofits, churches, schools, businesses, neighborhood associations, and art collectives physically located within the designated southeast area of Fort Wayne. A map of eligible neighborhoods is available through a linked city resource. The selection panel will consist of at least 50 percent residents or individuals working in the southeast quadrant to ensure community input in the funding decisions.

The application process offers both electronic and paper submission options. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Paper applications are available at the Auer Center for Arts & Culture in Fort Wayne, and electronic applications can be downloaded from the Arts United website and submitted via email. Application support sessions will be held virtually and in person in March and April 2025 to assist applicants in developing strong submissions.

For questions or assistance with the application, applicants are encouraged to contact Kody Tinnel by email at ktinnel@artsunited.org or by phone at 260-422-0646 x2005.