The Maryland Touring Grant, offered by the Maryland State Arts Council, supports nonprofit organizations in presenting artists listed on the Maryland Performing Artists Touring Roster. This grant provides financial assistance ranging from $500 to $5,000 for eligible organizations to engage and showcase local artists. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from July 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025, with a monthly review process.

Eligible applicants include Maryland-incorporated nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, units of local government, and arts programs within colleges or universities. Organizations applying through fiscal sponsorships are eligible if operating under a Model A sponsorship, where the project’s assets, liabilities, and exempt activities are housed within the fiscal sponsor. Detailed eligibility requirements can be found in the FY 2025 Touring Grant Guidelines.

To apply, organizations must submit their applications through the Smart Simple portal. It is important to ensure that the application ID begins with "2025" to confirm it is for the current fiscal year. Applications started under previous years cannot be submitted and require applicants to begin a new form under the "Opportunities" menu.

Applicants are encouraged to review the FY 2025 Touring Grant Application Rubric and access the "How to Apply" slides for guidance. For assistance, potential applicants can contact Laura Weiss, Program Director for Arts Services, at laura.weiss@maryland.gov, or Emily Sollenberger Dobbins, Program Director for Arts Services, at emily.sollenberger@maryland.gov.

This grant offers a valuable opportunity to bring Maryland’s performing artists to local audiences, fostering community engagement and supporting the state’s vibrant arts scene.