[McKnight Foundation](https://www.mcknight.org)

January 2028

$5,000 (minimum) or 20% of prior year’s expenses, up to $12,000 per year, for two years (biennial grant).

Biennial grants for nonprofit arts organizations in Central Minnesota to support operations, administration, equipment, accessibility, and outreach.

Only for 501(c)(3) arts nonprofits in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, or Wright counties with ≤$250,000 annual expenses.

--- ## Description This biennial program provides funding to strengthen the capacity and sustainability of small nonprofit arts organizations in Central Minnesota (Region 7W: Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties). Grants may be used for administration, operations, equipment purchases, accessibility improvements, and outreach efforts. The program aims to support organizations that demonstrate efficient management and high-quality artistic programming, helping them extend their impact within local communities. --- ## Due Dates - January 2028 (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Minimum award: $5,000 per year - Maximum award: 20% of the previous year’s operating expenses, up to $12,000 per year - Funding is for a two-year (biennial) period - Second-year funding is contingent on state legislative appropriation and successful interim review --- ## Eligibility Organizations must meet **all** of the following: - Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization - Located in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, or Wright counties (Minnesota Region 7W) - Have a primary mission to provide arts programming/services - Have been in existence for at least two years - Annual operating expenses must be $250,000 or less - Not currently receiving Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support **Ineligible applicants include:** - For-profit entities - Organizations without an arts-focused mission - Organizations with less than two years of service - Schools or governmental units - Organizations with intent to influence legislation or religious socialization - Organizations with overdue final reports to CMAB --- ## Application Process 1. **Review Guidelines:** Read the [program guidelines (PDF)](https://www.centralmnartsboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/FY26-FY27_CommunityArtsSupport_Guidelines.pdf). 2. **Register Online:** Access the [grant portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=centralmnartsboard). First-time applicants must create an organization profile. 3. **Prepare Documents:** - Profit & Loss Statement (last completed fiscal year) - Balance Sheet (approved by board) - 501(c)(3) Determination letter and EIN 4. **Complete Application:** Fill out all required sections and upload supporting documents. 5. **Submit:** Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 pm on the deadline date. Late applications are not accepted. 6. **Review & Award:** Applications are scored on artistic merit, demonstrated need, and organizational ability. Award notifications follow board review. 7. **Reporting:** Interim and final reports are required to receive second-year funding and maintain eligibility. **Tip:** Contact the CMAB office for eligibility questions or to review a draft application at least two weeks before the deadline. --- ## Additional Information - Funds cannot be used for alcohol, out-of-state travel, relocation outside Region 7W, or equipment purchases over $4,999 per year. - Organizations must certify board support and accuracy of application. - Grant recipients must comply with reporting requirements to remain eligible for future funding. - Appeals are accepted only for procedural issues, not for merit or need. --- ## External Links - [Program Page](https://www.centralmnartsboard.org/grants/for-others/community-arts-support/) - [Program Guidelines (PDF)](https://www.centralmnartsboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/FY26-FY27_CommunityArtsSupport_Guidelines.pdf) - [Grant Portal / Apply](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=centralmnartsboard) - [New Applicant Tutorial (Video)](https://youtu.be/rQ8z7agUGWc?si=lJjupfhJ_sQN1kKz) - [Contact CMAB](https://www.centralmnartsboard.org/contact) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Email | Phone | |---------------------|-------------------|-----------------------------------------|-----------------| | Leslie Hanlon | Executive Director| [leslie.hanlon@centralmnartsboard.org](mailto:leslie.hanlon@centralmnartsboard.org) | 320-968-4290 | | Kaitlin Pohland | Grant Manager | [kaitlin@centralmnartsboard.org](mailto:kaitlin@centralmnartsboard.org) | 320-968-4290 | | Su Legatt | Program Officer | [Su@centralmnartsboard.org](mailto:Su@centralmnartsboard.org) | 320-968-4290 | | General Inquiries | - | [media@centralmnartsboard.org](mailto:media@centralmnartsboard.org) | 1-866-825-1471 | For virtual office hours, [book a session here](https://outlook.office.com/bookwithme/user/8d4accacb62745bea4c86ac40f9f3070@centralmnartsboard.org?anonymous&ismsaljsauthenabled&ep=pcard).

Community Arts Support Program

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