LEAD Scholarship Grants
Forecasted
The LEAD Scholarship Grants from the North Carolina Arts Council support arts administrators in developing accessibility expertise through cohort learning and the Kennedy Center LEAD Conference.
Funder: North Carolina Arts Council
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $3,500 per award; supports conference fees, travel, and accessibility initiatives.
Summary: Supports professional development for arts administrators advancing accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities in the arts.
Key Information: For arts organizations new to accessibility; funding includes participation in a statewide cohort and attendance at the Kennedy Center LEAD Conference.
Description
The LEAD Scholarship Grants program, administered by the North Carolina Arts Council, provides professional development funding to arts administrators who are new to the field of arts accessibility. The grant is designed to help organizations create more inclusive arts programs and experiences for artists and audiences with disabilities. Recipients participate in a statewide learning cohort and attend the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts’ Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disabilities (LEAD) Conference, gaining access to expert-led discussions, practical accessibility strategies, and resources to foster best practices in arts accessibility.
