The Creative Learning Grants for Schools from the Illinois Arts Council fund projects that enhance arts education in Illinois public K-12 schools through partnerships with local artists and arts organizations.
Funder: Illinois Arts Council
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $20,000 per application; one-year grant period; regional allocation.
Summary: Supports Illinois public K-12 schools and districts in acquiring resources or services from Illinois artists or arts organizations to enhance student arts learning opportunities.
Key Information: Only public K-12 schools, districts, and charter schools in Illinois are eligible; FY26 CLGS recipients and private schools are excluded.
The Creative Learning Grants for Schools program, administered by the Illinois Arts Council, is designed to strengthen arts education across Illinois public schools. The grant enables K-12 public school districts, individual public schools, and charter schools to obtain essential supplies, materials, equipment, or services from Illinois-based artists or arts organizations. The goal is to support and expand meaningful arts learning opportunities tailored to student needs, with funding allocated regionally to ensure statewide impact. Eligible arts disciplines include dance, media arts, music, theatre, and visual arts.