Art Project Grants - McKnight Foundation
Art Project Grants support southwest Minnesota nonprofits and government units in creating and sharing public arts projects that expand access to performances, exhibits, classes, and other arts experiences.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates: October 7, 2026 (Round 2 draft review) | October 21, 2026 (Round 2 application) | January 6, 2027 (Round 3 draft review) | January 20, 2027 (Round 3 application) | March 31, 2027 (Round 4 draft review) | April 14, 2027 (Round 4 application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per project; $20,000 maximum in SMAC grants per organization per fiscal year
Summary: Supports organizations creating, performing, and sharing art in the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council region.
Key Information: Applicant organizations must be located in SMAC’s 18-county, two-tribal-nation service region.
Description
Southwest Minnesota Arts Council (SMAC) administers Art Project Grants to stimulate the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in its region. The program supports nonprofit organizations and eligible government units undertaking arts projects for the public. Its funding includes Minnesota legislative appropriations, with additional support for SMAC from the McKnight Foundation, regional memberships, and donations.
Projects may include community music, dance, or theater productions; visiting professional performances; visual art exhibits; author readings; community arts classes outside schools; public art; and arts festivals. Eligible arts organizations may also include a limited share of operating expenses incurred during the grant project period.
