Arts Organization Development
Arts Organization Development supports arts organizations and groups in Minnesota’s Region 7W with organizational improvements, training, and equipment that strengthen capacity and community impact.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates: September 30, 2026 (Draft review) | October 21, 2026 (Application, 11:59 p.m.) | December 10, 2026 (Board review)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000; activities must finish within 12 months of board approval
Summary: Supports organizational development, capacity-building purchases, and nonprofit establishment for arts organizations and groups in Minnesota’s Region 7W.
Key Information: Applicants must be located in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, or Wright counties and serve Region 7W residents.
Description
Arts Organization Development is administered by the Central Minnesota Arts Board (CMAB), with funding provided by the Minnesota State General Arts Fund. It supports activities and purchases that strengthen the sustainability, accessibility, growth, and long-term capacity of nonprofit arts organizations in Region 7W. Arts groups can also seek assistance with establishing 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
The program prioritizes organizational improvement that supports the ongoing delivery of arts programming, rather than regular programming or day-to-day operations. Eligible work includes consulting, contracted training, professional development for core staff or volunteers, accessibility improvements, equipment purchases, and staff time related to the proposal. Its intended outcome is stronger arts organizations whose strategies, services, and professional development improve community impact.
