[The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation](https://www.mellon.org)

June 2026 (projected)

No fixed amount; awards vary by project scope. Mellon awarded $555M across all programs in 2024.

Supports organizations and initiatives that protect, advance, and innovate in the U.S. creative arts ecosystem.

Most grants are by invitation; limited open calls.

--- ## Description The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation’s Arts and Culture grants aim to strengthen and sustain the creative ecosystem in the United States. These grants support visionary leadership among cultural organizations, encourage new forms of artistic expression, preserve and restore important artistic archives, and promote research that advances the understanding and viability of the creative sector. The program is rooted in the belief that performing, visual, and literary arts are vital to human connection and societal well-being. Mellon’s approach is proactive, with staff seeking out innovative organizations, scholars, and creators, and inviting them to apply for funding. Open calls for proposals are rare but do occur occasionally. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026: Application deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - There is no fixed maximum or minimum award amount; funding is tailored to the scope and needs of each project. - Mellon awarded $555 million across all grantmaking areas in 2024. - Typical grant durations and amounts vary; consult the [grant database](https://www.mellon.org/grant-database) for examples. --- ## Eligibility - Most grants are made to U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) public charity status, or international organizations equivalent to U.S. public charities. - The Foundation does not fund: - Tuition - K-12 education and programming - Fundraising events - Direct, unrestricted funding for individuals - Grants must align with charitable and/or educational purposes. - Most applicants are invited to apply after being identified by Mellon staff; unsolicited proposals are rarely accepted unless an open call is announced. --- ## Application Process - Prospective applicants are typically identified and invited by Mellon staff following a period of relationship-building and program alignment. - Occasionally, open calls are announced; sign up for the [Mellon newsletter](https://www.mellon.org/newsletter) to receive updates. - Visit the [Arts & Culture program page](https://www.mellon.org/grant-programs/arts-and-culture) for more details. - For general guidance, see [For Grant Seekers](https://www.mellon.org/resources/for-grant-seekers). --- ## Additional Information - The program supports cultural organizations, collectives, artistic initiatives, preservation/restoration of archives, and research in the arts sector. - Priority is given to projects that demonstrate visionary leadership, innovation, and a transformative impact on the creative ecosystem. - Staff engagement and alignment with program priorities are essential before invitation to apply. --- ## External Links - [Mellon Foundation Arts & Culture Grants](https://www.mellon.org/grant-programs/arts-and-culture) - [For Grant Seekers – Mellon Foundation](https://www.mellon.org/resources/for-grant-seekers) - [Grantmaking Areas Overview](https://www.mellon.org/grant-programs) - [Grant Database (Past Recipients)](https://www.mellon.org/grant-database) - [Newsletter Signup for Funding Announcements](https://www.mellon.org/newsletter) --- ## Contact Information | Type | Details | |--------------|----------------------------------------------| | Website | [https://www.mellon.org](https://www.mellon.org) | | Email | inquiries@mellon.org | | Phone | (212) 838-8400 | | Contact Form | [Contact Page](https://www.mellon.org/contact) |

Arts and Culture Grants

Sign in to see full grant listing