Creative Aging Grants
Forecasted
Creative Aging Grants support organizations working with teaching artists to offer arts education for adults aged 60 and older, building artistic skills and social connections through sustained learning.
Funder: Vermont Arts Council
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $6,000 per award; average award $4,000
Summary: Supports teaching artist-led arts education that builds creative skills and social connections for adults aged 60 and older.
Key Information: Organizations apply in partnership with experienced teaching artists; individuals cannot apply directly.
Description
The Vermont Arts Council’s Creative Aging Grants support arts education and arts-based community building for adults aged 60 and older. Funded by the State of Vermont and the National Endowment for the Arts, the program combines skill-based instruction with intentional social engagement. It emphasizes a sustained learning model rather than a health intervention model, helping older adults develop artistic skills and connect with others.
Projects may include photography workshop series at senior centers, remote arts workshops with materials and caregiver support, or storytelling and poetry projects at libraries and community centers. Experienced teaching artists lead activities in partnership with applicant organizations. Priority goes to projects facilitated by Vermont artists, especially artists on the Council’s Creative Aging Teaching Artist Roster, and projects aligned with the Council’s approach to creative aging.
