Arts Curricular Innovation Grants (ACIG) - 2026-27 Arts Enhancement Program (AEP)
Supports South Carolina Title I schools in creating or expanding innovative, standards-aligned arts education programs in dance, music, theatre, and visual art to improve student achievement.
Funder: South Carolina Department of Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per grant; approx. $350,000 total funding; up to 35 grants; project period July 2027–May 2028 (projected)
Summary: Supports South Carolina Title I schools in developing and expanding innovative arts education programs in dance, music, theatre, and visual art.
Key Information: Only one application per school for either AEP or DAP; district-wide DAP applications preclude AEP awards to schools in that district.
Description
This grant program is designed to help South Carolina Title I schools develop and implement arts initiatives that advance quality arts education and improve student achievement in the arts. The Arts Enhancement Program (AEP) grants support the creation, expansion, and enhancement of school-based arts curricula in dance, music, theatre, and visual art. Proposals may focus on a single arts discipline or multiple areas, with the goal of fostering innovation, growth, and alignment with the 2026 South Carolina College- and Career-Ready Visual and Performing Arts Proficiency Standards. The program encourages projects that operate during the regular school day and emphasizes measurable improvements in student outcomes.
