The Madison Arts Commission (MAC) is currently accepting applications for its 2025 Arts Grants program. These grants aim to support individual artists and nonprofit organizations in delivering cultural programs and artistic activities that enhance the role of arts and culture in the city of Madison. The commission encourages projects that foster inclusivity, equity, and community engagement. Eligible projects should engage Madison residents in arts and cultural activities, expand an artist’s reach or body of work, offer opportunities for public participation in the creative process, provide arts education for PK-12 students, serve diverse or underserved communities, or celebrate the identity of a group or neighborhood.

The grant program consists of three funding categories. Project Grants offer up to $5,000 to support arts education programs, performances, exhibitions, workshops, and events that contribute to the cultural enrichment of Madison. Legacy Grants provide $1,500 to organizations that have received MAC funding for at least three out of the last six years to help sustain their existing arts programming. Individual Fellowships, offering up to $2,000, are designed to support artists in advancing their practice and sharing their work with the community.

To apply, interested artists and organizations must submit their applications online by March 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. The application process includes reviewing grant restrictions and requirements, understanding the evaluation criteria, and ensuring that projects align with the objectives of MAC. Applicants are encouraged to seek assistance if needed, as MAC volunteers provide 15-minute one-on-one consultations upon request.

Applications will be reviewed based on criteria such as artistic merit, community engagement, project feasibility, and alignment with the commission's goals. Funding recipients must comply with all grant requirements, including providing final reports on their funded projects. The commission aims to support projects that contribute to a thriving, inclusive, and culturally rich Madison.

For additional information or assistance with the application, applicants can contact Meri Rose Ekberg, Community & Cultural Resources Planner, via email at madisonarts@cityofmadison.com. Jaymes Langrehr, Public Information Officer, is also available for general inquiries at jlangrehr@cityofmadison.com. The Madison Arts Commission operates within the City-County Building at 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Madison, WI 53703, with office hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

To stay informed about future grant opportunities and other cultural initiatives, individuals can sign up for the Madison Arts Newsletter. The commission encourages local artists and organizations to take advantage of this funding opportunity to enhance Madison’s vibrant arts scene.