The Community Arts Development (CAD) Operating Grants program is administered by the Howard County Arts Council and provides general operating support to eligible nonprofit arts or cultural organizations based in Howard County, Maryland. These grants are intended to assist organizations whose core mission is the exhibition, presentation, or production of the arts. Funding through this program can be used for essential operational costs such as staff salaries, office equipment, utilities, and other day-to-day expenses that support the mission-driven work of arts organizations.

To qualify for a CAD Operating Grant, organizations must first meet a key eligibility requirement: they must have successfully completed two project grants administered by the Howard County Arts Council over the past two consecutive years. This includes not only completing the funded projects but also submitting all required interim and final reports on time. The program is designed to reward organizations that have demonstrated a consistent track record of successful arts programming and responsible grant management.

CAD Operating Grants are part of the Council’s broader commitment to sustaining and growing a vibrant arts community within Howard County. By offering more substantial, unrestricted funding, the program helps organizations stabilize their operations, expand capacity, and plan for longer-term artistic growth. This grant differs from project-based support in that it is not restricted to specific events or programs but instead supports the broader mission and daily operations of the grantee.

Applicants must use the GoSmart online platform to apply and are encouraged to review the program guidelines carefully before beginning the application process. These guidelines offer important information about eligibility, allowable expenses, and application requirements. The guidelines and application link are available on the Howard County Arts Council’s website.

For questions regarding the CAD Operating Grants, applicants may contact the Council by email at grantsandprojects@hocoarts.org or by phone at (410) 313-2787 during standard business hours, Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Howard County Arts Council is located at the Howard County Center for the Arts, 8510 High Ridge Road, Ellicott City, Maryland.