[New England Foundation for the Arts](https://www.nefa.org)

September 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

Typically $45,000–$50,000 per project for creation and touring; additional funds may be available for production residencies and professional development.

Supports the creation and U.S. touring of new dance projects by fostering partnerships between artists and organizations.

--- ## Description The National Dance Project (NDP) is a leading source of funding for the creation and touring of new dance works in the United States. Established by the New England Foundation for the Arts, NDP aims to connect artists, cultural organizations, and audiences nationwide, ensuring a diversity of projects and perspectives are supported and shared. The program invests in the development, production, and touring of new dance projects, and also offers initiatives such as production residencies and regionally focused professional development. NDP is guided by a rotating group of advisors—leaders in the dance field—who help shape grant selection and program policy. --- ## Due Dates - September 2026: Full application deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical award: $45,000–$50,000 per project, supporting both the creation and U.S. touring of new dance works. - Additional funds may be available for production residencies and regionally focused professional development. - Over $38.5 million has been invested in U.S. dance projects since the program's inception. --- ## Eligibility - Open to professional choreographers and companies developing new dance projects. - Applicants must have at least two U.S.-based organizational partners, which may include presenting organizations, producing organizations, or other cultural institutions. - Both nonprofit and for-profit entities are eligible; individual artists may apply with a fiscal sponsor if they do not have nonprofit status. - Projects must be intended for U.S. audiences and include a plan for touring or sharing the work in multiple U.S. communities or territories. - NDP tour subsidies can only be allocated to U.S.-based organizations. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted through the [NEFA online portal](https://www.nefa.org/grants/grant-programs/national-dance-project). - Required materials include: - Narrative responses to application questions (project description, impact, creative process, partnerships, community engagement, touring strategy, and timeline). - A four-minute work sample (via Dropbox, Google Drive, or Vimeo; not social media). - Project budget. - Information about at least two U.S.-based organizational partners and touring partners. - The review process is managed by a panel of rotating advisors who are leaders in the dance field, assessing applications based on artistic excellence, partnerships, engagement, and relevance. - Feedback is provided to all applicants. --- ## Additional Information - The program values projects that advance cultural and aesthetic diversity in dance and demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and community engagement. - NDP does not use quotas for funding allocation; instead, it seeks to amplify the diversity of today’s dance field. - Applicants are encouraged to review previous grantees and guidelines to ensure alignment with program goals. - For tips and guidance, see [Tips for Applying](https://www.nefa.org/news/tips-applying-national-dance-project). --- ## External Links - [National Dance Project Program Page](https://www.nefa.org/grants/grant-programs/national-dance-project) - [2026 Grant Review Process](https://www.nefa.org/ndp-production-grant-review-process) - [2026 Application Questions Preview](https://www.nefa.org/preview-2026-ndp-production-grant-application-questions) - [Tips for Applying](https://www.nefa.org/news/tips-applying-national-dance-project) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Type | Details | |----------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | info@nefa.org | | Phone | 617-951-0010 | | Contact Form | [Contact NEFA](https://www.nefa.org/contact) | | Program Page | [National Dance Project](https://www.nefa.org/grants/grant-programs/national-dance-project) | ---

National Dance Project

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