[Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation](https://www.midatlanticarts.org)

February 25, 2026 (Full application) | March 4, 2026 (Letters of Invitation/contracts)

Up to $11,000 per grant; 1:1 cash match required; typical awards fund 90–100% of request.

Supports U.S. performing artists and ensembles for in-person performances at international festivals and events outside the U.S.

Fiscal sponsorship is no longer permitted; individuals must apply directly.

--- ## Description USArtists International (USAI) provides support for U.S.-based performing artists and ensembles to present their work at international festivals, global arts markets, and other eligible engagements outside the United States. The program aims to expand the careers and artistic goals of U.S. performers, foster cross-cultural exchange, and elevate underrepresented voices and traditions through international touring. Funding is available for professional artists and ensembles in dance, music, theater, and multidisciplinary practices. --- ## Due Dates - **February 25, 2026**: Full application deadline (submit by 11:59 PM Eastern) - **March 4, 2026**: Deadline to upload signed Letters of Invitation or contracts for listed engagements (one-week grace period after application deadline) For projects taking place between June 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027. --- ## Funding Amount - **Grant range:** $1,000–$11,000 per award - **Match requirement:** 1:1 cash match (for every grant dollar, one non-federal dollar must be committed to eligible expenses) - **Funding rate:** Typically funds 90–100% of the requested amount for selected projects - **Eligible expenses:** Lodging, per diem, travel (economy class, Fly America Act-compliant), shipping, visa fees, agents’ fees, registration/application fees (up to $350), performance fees --- ## Eligibility ### Artist Eligibility - Open to U.S.-based individual artists and ensembles working professionally in dance, music, or theater. - Applicants must be either: - A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, **or** - An individual artist (including those applying on behalf of an ensemble or group). - All performers must be at least 18 years old and not enrolled in instructional or academic programs. - At least half of the performers in the project (including collaborators) must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents (green card holders). - Applicants must currently reside in the U.S. or its territories. - Applicants must not have received a USAI grant within the past 12 months. - **Fiscal sponsorship is no longer allowed.** Individuals without nonprofit status must apply directly and are responsible for tax implications (grant income is reportable to the IRS). ### Tour & Engagement Eligibility - Application must include 1–3 engagements; at least one must be a curated/juried international festival or performing arts market. - All engagements must: - Take place outside the U.S. and its territories. - Be organized by a non-U.S.-based organization that is financially and curatorially responsible. - Pay an artist fee (except for performing arts markets). - Have confirmed dates and provide a signed Letter of Invitation or contract (in English or with English translation). - Not require artist fees or other charges exceeding $350. - Be open and marketed to the public (unless at a performing arts market). - Feature performances of at least 20 minutes. - Not occur in embargoed countries (Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria). --- ## Application Process 1. **Review guidelines:** Carefully read the [program guidelines (PDF)](https://www.midatlanticarts.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/USAI-FY26-Guidelines-v1.0.1.pdf) or [Word version](https://www.midatlanticarts.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/USAI-FY26-Guidelines-v1.0.1.docx). 2. **Register and apply:** Submit your application through the [Mid Atlantic Arts SmartSimple portal](https://midatlanticarts.smartsimple.com/). 3. **Application materials:** - Applicant information - Project details and narrative - Two work samples (see [work sample recommendations](https://www.midatlanticarts.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Work-Sample-Recommendations.pdf)) - Biographies of principal artists - Participant list (including citizenship status) - Detailed budget and match documentation - Signed Letters of Invitation or contracts for each engagement (upload by March 4, 2026 if not available at initial submission) 4. **Notification:** Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by May 20, 2026. 5. **Award and reporting:** 100% of the grant is paid ~45–60 days before the engagement, following agreement signature. A final report is required within 30 days after project completion. --- ## Additional Information - **Match requirement:** Matching funds must be non-federal and cannot include in-kind contributions. - **No fiscal sponsorship:** Individuals must apply directly; payments cannot be issued to for-profits or fiscal sponsors. - **Travel:** Airfare must comply with the Fly America Act (economy class, U.S. flag carrier or approved partner). - **Competitive program:** Only about 17–23% of applicants are funded. - **Webinars & office hours:** Regular webinars, application tips, and office hours are offered—see the [program page](https://www.midatlanticarts.org/opportunity/usartists-international/) for details. - **Accessibility:** Contact the program director to request accommodations during the application process. --- ## External Links - [Program Page & Guidelines](https://www.midatlanticarts.org/opportunity/usartists-international/) - [Online Application Portal](https://midatlanticarts.smartsimple.com/) - [Work Sample Recommendations (PDF)](https://www.midatlanticarts.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Work-Sample-Recommendations.pdf) - [International Festival Database](https://midatlanticarts.org/resources/international-festivals/) - [Eligibility Webinar (YouTube)](https://youtu.be/gUh2NYwndr8) - [Application Tips Webinar (YouTube)](https://youtu.be/R3hewMUIY3Q) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Email | Phone | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|--------------| | Andrew Alness Olson | Program Director, International | [andrew@midatlanticarts.org](mailto:andrew@midatlanticarts.org) | 410.539.6656 | For additional questions, applicants are encouraged to email or attend virtual office hours listed on the program page.

USArtists International

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