Arts Based Community Development (ABCD) Grant Program - McKnight Foundation
Funds collaborative arts-driven projects in select Minnesota counties that use artist leadership to address community issues and foster engagement.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates: March 31, 2026 (anticipated) | April 30, 2026 (if funds remain, anticipated)
Funding Amounts: Up to $7,500 per project; requires at least a 50% cash match; project must be completed within 12 months.
Summary: Supports collaborative arts-driven projects that address community issues in Minnesota through artist leadership and engagement.
Key Information: Applicants must serve Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd, or Wadena counties in Minnesota; strong requirement for partnership between arts and non-arts organizations.
Description
The Arts Based Community Development (ABCD) Grant Program funds projects that intentionally integrate arts and culture into community development to address local issues, challenges, or needs. The program encourages collaboration between artists, arts organizations, and non-arts community partners to design and implement initiatives that build community cohesion, capacity, and quality of life. Projects can be new or expand on existing efforts, but must involve artists or arts organizations in leadership roles throughout all phases. The program emphasizes community engagement, careful planning, and measurable outcomes, aiming to inspire, educate, heal, and mobilize communities in Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd, and Wadena counties in Minnesota.
