[Arkansas Community Foundation](https://www.arcf.org)

May 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

$5,000 total per award ($2,500 in year one, $2,500 in year two); general operating support

Supports small Arkansas arts nonprofits with general operating grants, prioritizing underserved communities and expanding access to arts programming.

For organizations with annual operating budgets of $500,000 or less; 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship required.

--- ## Description The Arts in Arkansas Fund, administered by the Arkansas Community Foundation, provides general operating support to small arts nonprofits across Arkansas. Its primary goal is to help organizations maintain, expand, or introduce new visual and performing arts programming, with a strong emphasis on serving underserved communities where arts access is limited or otherwise unavailable. Funding decisions are made by a committee that includes both foundation representatives and community leaders with artistic expertise from across the state. The grant is designed to strengthen the long-term capacity and impact of small arts organizations within their local communities. --- ## Due Dates - May 2026 (anticipated full application deadline, projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Each selected organization receives a total of $5,000, distributed as $2,500 in the first year and $2,500 in the second year. - Funds are for general operating support and must be expended over a two-year period. --- ## Eligibility Eligible applicants must: - Be a nonprofit organization with a total annual operating budget of $500,000 or less (based on the most recent completed fiscal year). - Have a primary mission or key programmatic focus on visual and/or performing arts (including disciplines such as dance, music, theatre, visual arts, film & media, or multidisciplinary arts). - Demonstrate a track record of delivering arts programming, with the majority of activities taking place in Arkansas within the last 12 months. - Be physically located in Arkansas. - Hold 501(c)(3) nonprofit status from the IRS, or have a qualifying fiscal sponsor with 501(c)(3) status and a memorandum of understanding. - Priority is given to organizations serving underserved communities and providing arts programming that would otherwise be inaccessible or limited for their target audience. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted via the [Arkansas Community Foundation’s online portal](https://www.arcf.org/apply/nonprofits/arts-in-arkansas-fund). - Be prepared to provide: - Organization’s mission, history, and community impact. - Description of need for general operating support. - Financial information from the most recently completed fiscal year. - Documentation of 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship agreement. - Awardees must: - Complete a brief interim report after the first year (required for release of second installment). - Submit a final report at the end of the two-year funding period. - Expend all grant funds within the designated two-year period. - Optional: Share grant impact using the foundation’s [press kit and promotional guidelines](https://www.arcf.org/nonprofits/arkansas-community-foundation-promotional-guidelines/). --- ## Additional Information - Approximately 14 organizations are selected each cycle. - The program prioritizes geographic diversity and equitable distribution of funds across the state. - Frequently Asked Questions: [2025 FAQ PDF](http://www.arcf.org/app/uploads/2025/03/Arts-in-AR-2025-FAQ.pdf) - To receive updates or notification when the application opens, [sign up here](https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001UxqbawIW3JUA3LeXa4Q9jktQZQ_WY7Z8ELO724RDi5NfjfxG25olCBTBJf2QzPg0QAuXmtPdAniGJZO5YvSyR9bh2M8a0fRPlETeZCIozwrVSHPkq6RDFg%3D%3D). --- ## External Links - [Program page: Arts in Arkansas Fund](https://www.arcf.org/apply/nonprofits/arts-in-arkansas-fund) - [FAQ (PDF)](http://www.arcf.org/app/uploads/2025/03/Arts-in-AR-2025-FAQ.pdf) - [Foundation homepage](https://www.arcf.org) - [Promotional guidelines and press kit](https://www.arcf.org/nonprofits/arkansas-community-foundation-promotional-guidelines/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Type | Details | |----------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [arcf@arcf.org](mailto:arcf@arcf.org) \| 501-372-1116 | | Online Contact Form | [Contact page](https://www.arcf.org/contact/) | | Foundation Address | 5 Allied Drive, Suite 51110, Building 5, 11th Floor, Little Rock, AR 72202 | ---

Arts in Arkansas Fund

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