The FY2026 Project Support (PS) Grant, administered by the Delaware Division of the Arts, aims to foster a vibrant cultural environment by funding high-quality arts activities organized by community-based organizations. The grant focuses on projects that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, directly benefit Delaware communities, and demonstrate artistic and organizational quality. Eligible projects should include collaborative planning and community involvement and address areas such as providing access to arts for underserved audiences, supporting new or traditional art forms, or creating opportunities for artistic expression tied to local history and culture.

To qualify for this grant, applicants must be Delaware-based nonprofit organizations with a primary mission other than the arts or established government entities. Organizations must possess a stable governing board, IRS nonprofit status, and propose an arts-related project with over $5,000 in eligible direct cash expenses. Restrictions include a maximum of three project applications per fiscal year, with a total grant request not exceeding $75,000. Funds cannot support activities outside Delaware, fundraising events, scholarships, capital expenditures, or projects with sectarian purposes.

Applications, available via the smARTDE portal beginning December 2, 2024, require submission of an organizational profile, narrative answers, a budget, and other supporting documents. Applications must be filed by 4:30 p.m. on March 3, 2025. Grant decisions, informed by detailed evaluation criteria in areas such as artistic relevance, community impact, and management, are finalized by the Delaware State Arts Council in June 2025, with notifications sent post-July 1, 2025.

Grants cover up to 30% of direct cash expenses for the artistic portion of projects, with awards ranging between $2,000 and $10,000. Matching funds are required and must be cash, excluding funds from the National Endowment for the Arts. Approved expenses include artist fees, marketing, supplies, and operational costs, while indirect costs like staff salaries are excluded from Division funding.

Grant recipients must comply with several obligations, including proper credit to the Division, event updates on DelawareScene.com, and timely submission of a final report by September 30, 2026. Failure to meet these requirements may result in penalties or loss of future funding. Organizations new to this grant program are encouraged to contact the Division before starting their application to confirm eligibility and obtain guidance.