The North Carolina Arts Council is offering Hurricane Helene Relief Grants to nonprofit arts organizations in Western North Carolina. These grants are designed to support the recovery efforts of arts organizations that experienced losses due to Hurricane Helene. By providing flexible funding, the program aims to help organizations stabilize their operations and reconnect with their audiences. Grant amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the organization’s budget size and the number of applications received. The funds are intended to cover artistic and administrative expenses, with no matching requirement. Applications opened on January 6, 2025, and will close on January 24, 2025.

The purpose of this grant program is to ensure that the arts sector in the affected regions can recover and continue serving their communities. Eligible uses of funds include salaries and wages for staff, repair and conservation of artistic materials such as costumes and instruments, replacement of supplies and equipment, and audience engagement activities. The grants are particularly focused on helping organizations resume operations and rebuild their capacity to deliver arts programs.

Eligible applicants are nonprofit arts organizations located in 26 counties in Western North Carolina, including Buncombe, Haywood, Jackson, and others listed in the grant guidelines. Organizations must have been producing quality arts programs for at least two consecutive years, have annual cash operating expenses of at least $20,000, and be in good standing with the state. However, arts organizations affiliated with municipalities, schools, or colleges are not eligible for this program.

The funding scope allows recipients to allocate grants to a wide range of expenses, including salaries, production costs, promotion, programming, supplies, and facility operations. Organizations have until June 30, 2025, to use the funds, with final reports due by July 31, 2025. This timeline provides sufficient time for grantees to implement recovery projects and document outcomes.

Applications must be submitted through the North Carolina Arts Council's online system by the deadline. Specific application questions and evaluation criteria are detailed on the Council’s website. Organizations are encouraged to review the guidelines thoroughly to ensure compliance with the program requirements and to prepare a strong application.

This grant opportunity represents an essential lifeline for arts organizations in Western North Carolina as they rebuild from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. With no matching funds required and broad allowable expenses, the program is designed to provide immediate, flexible support to organizations in need. Interested applicants should begin the application process promptly to meet the January 24, 2025, deadline.