Public Artist Grant Program
The Public Artist Grant Program from the McKnight Foundation funds innovative public art projects and research by early- and mid-career artists in Minnesota and Native Nations, with a focus on equity and inclusion.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates: October 18, 2026 (Full application deadline for 2027 cycle)
Funding Amounts: $2,500–$10,000 per award; 11-month project period (Jan–Nov 2027); multiple awards for early- and mid-career artists
Summary: Supports early- and mid-career public artists in Minnesota and Native Nations for new public art projects, research, and development, with an emphasis on equity and inclusion.
Key Information: Only one application per artist per cycle; projects must be freely accessible and not commissioned.
Description
This grant program, administered by Forecast Public Art with funding from the McKnight Foundation (mid-career) and Jerome Foundation (early-career), provides annual support for early- and mid-career public artists based in Minnesota and its Native Nations. The program funds new public art projects and research & development activities that are artist-initiated, original, and freely accessible to the public. There is a strong commitment to equity, prioritizing artists of color, Indigenous and Native artists, LGBTQIA+ artists, artists from rural communities, and others historically excluded from such opportunities. Projects can take diverse forms, including installations, performances, murals, temporary or permanent artworks, and more.
