Independent Projects supports New York State individuals and teams in independent design creation and research that emphasize artistry, advance design disciplines, and broaden public understanding of design.
Funder: Architectural League of New York
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Submission deadline)
Funding Amounts: $10,000 per award for 12 months; 25 grants in the 2026 cycle
Summary: Supports New York State-based individuals and teams exploring design through independent creative work or research.
Key Information: All applicants and team members must maintain their primary residence in New York State throughout the award period.
Independent Projects is a partnership between the Architectural League of New York and the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). It supports independent, individually driven exploration of design through creation or research. Design fields include architecture, landscape architecture, historic preservation, biodesign, community-centered design, fashion, graphic, industrial, and interior design.
The program asks, “Where can design go next?” It seeks proposals that emphasize artistry, advance a design discipline, and contribute to a broader understanding of design. Projects may develop prototypes, explore community-based design strategies, investigate design history, or undertake critical or theoretical analysis. Design must be central to the proposal, and the resulting work must be accessible to the public.