Arts & Culture Program Grants
The McKnight Foundation’s Arts & Culture program funds Minnesota-based organizations supporting artists and culture bearers to strengthen the arts ecosystem and advance creative leadership and justice.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (paused May 2–mid-June 2026)
Funding Amounts: General operating and project grants typically range from $15,000 to $200,000; fellowship awards for individuals are $25,000; Distinguished Artist Award is $100,000.
Summary: Supports organizations, groups, and Tribal Nations—primarily in Minnesota—that empower artists and culture bearers through funding for practice, production, and leadership.
Key Information: Applications paused May 2–mid-June 2026 due to grants management system transition.
Description
The McKnight Foundation’s Arts & Culture program provides funding to organizations, groups, and Tribal Nations that support artists and culture bearers, primarily in Minnesota. The program aims to strengthen the arts ecosystem and foster creative leadership by funding organizations that offer direct support structures for artists, as well as partners who provide fellowships and regranting opportunities for individual artists. Funding is available for general operating support, specific projects, and, in limited cases, capital grants. The program prioritizes organizations advancing justice, sustaining underrepresented artists and cultural institutions, and cultivating strategic partnerships to support individual artists and culture bearers.
