Proposals are accepted for two years of visual arts programming, which can include exhibitions, residencies, public art projects, screenings, performances, lectures, publications, and other artist-centered activities.

Program Support Grants are designed to support visual arts programs taking place in a 2-year period; a proposal should not single out any one program stream or focus on the launch of a new funding-dependent project.

Grants range from $60,000-$100,000. Include a full one-year operating budget for the organization with your application.

The proposal’s three-page narrative should begin with a brief description of the organization and a concise view of the full range of opportunities it provides for artists. Be specific about the unique resources an artist might have access to through the organization, and any institutional partnerships that might benefit their practice.

Include a compelling argument for why this is the right moment for the foundation to be involved as a funder. Examples of this may include: a new artistic vision coming to fruition; a program that has deepened or strengthened relationships with artists; or strong community resources newly available.

The foundation generally seeks to support artists with experimental, hard to categorize practices or those who have not received adequate critical attention. If there is a more specific population of artists being served, please describe.

Throughout the proposal, keep the focus on the artists and the ways in which their careers and creative development will benefit from their experience at the organization. Do not include institutionally focused activities like anniversaries or other milestone celebrations.

Describe the process by which artists are selected or invited to work with the organization.  Identify staff or advisory committee members making curatorial decisions and if there is an open call, provide information about jurors and the timeline for decision making.

For a proposal to be competitive it must include an upcoming program schedule with as much detail as possible about planned activities in the year following the award date. (For September 1 deadlines this include programming from January through the following January; for March 1 deadlines, July through the following July.) Anything planned out beyond the first year should also be included, with the understanding that these plans may change. Proposals without any information about upcoming activities, or those that only give examples of past programming will not be considered.

If there is a major shift coming for the curatorial staff or for the director of the organization, it is probably not the right time to apply. Similarly, if the organization is about to move into a new space or undergo a major renovation, it is best to wait to apply until the move or renovation is complete.

Organizations are required to wait one full year after a grant has been completed (with a final report submitted) before re-applying.

Even if applying electronically, be sure to include a full mailing address, along with current contact information for the Executive Director (or equivalent).