The Vermont Arts Council's Creation Grants provide financial support to Vermont-based artists and artist groups to create new works of art. The program allows for funds to be used for artists’ time spent developing their work, as well as for purchasing materials, renting equipment or studio space, and covering other necessary expenses related to the creative process. The grant is highly competitive and is reviewed by an independent panel of practicing artists and arts professionals. Both established and emerging artists are encouraged to apply.

Eligible applicants include individual artists and artist groups where at least one member meets the residency and eligibility requirements. Individual artists must be Vermont residents for at least one year prior to applying and must continue to reside in the state when the grant is awarded. They must be at least 18 years old and be practicing artists in disciplines such as visual arts, crafts, performing arts, literary arts, media and design arts, or multidisciplinary arts. Artists who have received a Creation Grant within the past five years, those applying for projects that earn academic credit, and nonprofit organizations are not eligible to apply.

Grants of up to $5,000 are available, with the final award amount dependent on available state and federal funding. Awarded funds are distributed after September 1, 2025, following the submission of a signed contract, direct deposit agreement, and W-9 form. Funds may be used exclusively for the creation of new work and cannot be allocated for public presentation activities. Eligible expenses include an artist’s own time, the cost of materials and equipment under $5,000, space rental, travel within the U.S., and professional services related to the completion of the work.

Applications are evaluated based on artistic excellence (60%), project management (15%), and impact (25%). Strong artistic work samples, a well-defined project plan and timeline, and the potential to engage audiences or introduce new perspectives contribute to a competitive application. Applicants must submit a final report within 30 days of completing the project and no later than September 30, 2026.

The deadline to apply is April 8, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Applicants will be notified of their funding status by late August 2025. Funded projects must take place between September 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026. The Vermont Arts Council is committed to accessibility and nondiscrimination, ensuring that grant recipients comply with relevant federal and state laws regarding accessibility and equal opportunity.

For further information, applicants are encouraged to contact Dominique Gustin at 802.402.4602 or via email at dgustin@vermontartscouncil.org. Technical assistance with the application process is available through Meredith Bell at 802.402.4478 or mbell@vermontartscouncil.org.