The ArtsEverywhere Grants, administered by the Community Foundation’s ArtsEverywhere Fund, aim to support the arts in St. Joseph County through competitive funding opportunities. These grants are intended to elevate the quality of artistic projects, enhance the skills of volunteers and staff in arts organizations, and increase the overall capacity of the local arts community. In addition, the program seeks to foster local talent, boost community pride, and support the development of a vibrant arts scene. These grants are well-suited for organizations that contribute meaningfully to the arts and can demonstrate a commitment to this sector as part of their core mission.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public agencies located in St. Joseph County that have a substantial focus on the arts. While the commitment to arts does not need to be exclusive, it must be a significant aspect of the organization’s mission. Additionally, applicants should be actively participating in the ArtsEverywhere initiative, ensuring alignment with the program’s objectives and community impact goals.

ArtsEverywhere Grants are awarded across three main categories: capacity building, program or project support, and major venture funding. Capacity-building grants are aimed at strengthening organizational infrastructure, program or project support grants assist with specific artistic endeavors, and major venture funding is available for large-scale initiatives that can significantly impact the local arts community. The program’s flexible funding structure allows applicants to seek support that aligns with their unique needs and artistic goals.

Applications for these grants are due twice annually, with deadlines on May 1 and November 1. If a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, submissions are accepted until 9:00 a.m. the next business day. To ensure fairness and preparedness, applications open in the Foundation’s online grant system six weeks before each deadline, providing ample time for organizations to prepare and submit their proposals. New applicants should carefully review the ArtsEverywhere grant guidelines before applying and consider using the Foundation’s budget template to present financial information clearly.

Grant recipients are required to acknowledge the Community Foundation’s support in their project-related communications, following the Grant Recognition Guidelines. This recognition helps promote the Foundation’s role in fostering the arts and encourages community engagement with funded projects. To assist applicants in crafting competitive proposals, the Foundation provides a list of tips aimed at strengthening grant applications, including advice on project planning, budget preparation, and alignment with grant priorities.

Overall, the ArtsEverywhere Grants offer a valuable opportunity for local organizations to secure financial support for arts initiatives that enrich the cultural landscape of St. Joseph County. By focusing on quality, leadership, and community engagement, these grants play a pivotal role in nurturing the arts and inspiring local pride.