The Folk Arts Apprenticeship Program, overseen by the Wisconsin Arts Board, aims to preserve and strengthen Wisconsin’s diverse cultural traditions by supporting traditional artists and culture bearers in passing their knowledge and skills to committed apprentices. The program welcomes a wide range of traditional art forms, from beadwork and ethnic dance to foodways and instrument making, practiced by cultural groups sharing common ethnicity, language, religion, or geography. Special emphasis is placed on art forms and languages at risk of being lost. Both mentor artists and apprentices must demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the continuation and vitality of the art form within their shared community.

Grants of up to $3,500 are awarded to mentor artists or their fiscal receivers to support apprenticeship-related expenses, including the artist’s fees, materials, supplies, and travel costs. Eligible mentor artists should be recognized as exemplary practitioners in their cultural communities, while apprentices must have some experience with the art form, display motivation to enhance their skills, and share a cultural connection with the mentor. Apprenticeships may include more than one apprentice if the art form allows, but immediate family members under 18 are not eligible. Returning applicants are ineligible if they have received grants for three consecutive years, though they may reapply after a one-year break.

Applications for FY25 are due by March 20, 2025, and must be submitted online. The application includes questions about the art form, the cultural community, a detailed work plan, and a proposed budget. Applicants are also required to outline a public presentation of the work produced during the apprenticeship. Responses can be submitted in writing or via video/audio recordings. First-time applicants are encouraged to consult with program staff to confirm eligibility and ensure a strong application.

Apprenticeships funded for FY25 may take place between July 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026, with final reports due by June 30, 2026. Grants are disbursed in two installments: $2,500 at the beginning of the apprenticeship and the remaining $1,000 upon successful completion of the public presentation and submission of the final report.

Applications are evaluated based on the artistic quality and traditionality of the art form, the skill and commitment of both mentor and apprentice, the feasibility of the work plan, and the urgency of preserving the art form or language. Priority is given to apprenticeships addressing endangered traditions or marginalized cultural expressions. For additional guidance, applicants may contact Kaitlyn Berle, Folk Arts Specialist, at 608-266-8106 or artsboard@wisconsin.gov.