The Arts Education Annual Projects grant, administered by the Idaho Commission on the Arts, supports initiatives that integrate best practices in both education and the arts. This funding aims to enrich teaching and learning experiences for K-12 students across Idaho by promoting the intersection of effective educational strategies and artistic engagement.

This annual grant opportunity is available to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or government units at the local, county, tribal, or state level, including public schools and school districts. Organizations must have operated in Idaho for at least one year and possess a valid IRS tax-exempt determination letter with an effective date at least one year before the application deadline. All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued through SAM.gov. Additionally, applicants are required to compensate professional artists and administrators involved in the proposed projects and must have submitted final reports for any previous grants received from the Commission.

Funding for this grant is capped at $10,000 per project, with applicants required to provide a 1:1 match through cash or in-kind contributions. The grant can cover up to 50% of the projected expenses, and the final award amount is determined based on panel evaluation scores and the availability of funds, meaning it may be less than the amount requested.

The application process is conducted online via the Commission’s grant portal, and first-time applicants must create and receive approval for a user account before accessing the application form. The deadline for submitting applications is January 31, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time. Applicants are encouraged to request a courtesy review of their application at least three weeks before the deadline for constructive feedback. Final decisions are made at the May Commission meeting, with notifications sent in June and funds available in July.

Projects funded by this grant must adhere to specific guidelines, including those ensuring compliance with federal regulations and the Commission's access and equity policies. Certain expenditures are not eligible for funding, such as endowment contributions, prizes, scholarships, promotional activities, and projects not centered on arts education. Funded activities must be accessible to all Idaho residents, including underserved communities, and must comply with a range of federal statutes regarding civil rights and accessibility.

For assistance or additional information, applicants may contact the Idaho Commission on the Arts at their Boise office. Phone support is available at (208) 334-2119 or toll-free within Idaho at (800) 278-3863.