Art Project Grants
This grant funds nonprofit and public organizations in Southwest Minnesota to create, perform, and promote community-based arts projects that enhance regional cultural engagement.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates: July 1, 2026 (staff draft review, Round 1) | July 15, 2026 (application deadline, Round 1) | October 7, 2026 (staff draft review, Round 2) | October 21, 2026 (application deadline, Round 2) | January 6, 2027 (staff draft review, Round 3) | January 20, 2027 (application deadline, Round 3) | March 31, 2027 (staff draft review, Round 4) | April 14, 2027 (application deadline, Round 4)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per project; maximum $20,000 total SMAC grants per fiscal year per organization.
Summary: Supports nonprofit organizations and public entities in southwest Minnesota to create, perform, and promote the arts through community-based projects.
Key Information: Applicants must be based in the 18-county SW MN region or listed tribal nations; up to 40% of request can be for operating expenses (arts orgs only).
Description
This grant program provides funding to nonprofit organizations, government units, and eligible groups in the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council (SMAC) region to stimulate and encourage the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts. Projects may include performances, exhibitions, festivals, classes, and other community-oriented arts activities. The program aims to enhance cultural development and community engagement, supporting a wide range of artistic expressions that contribute to the vibrancy of the region’s arts ecosystem. A portion of the grant may be used for general operating expenses for arts organizations.
