Venue Access Grants
Creative Individuals
opens January 14, 2026
The Venue Access Grant is designed to alleviate financial barriers for Mecklenburg County’s creatives, enabling them to utilize publicly and privately owned venues for cultural programming rooted in arts, science, history, or heritage. This grant funding, provided solely by Mecklenburg County, aims to provide access to affordable space for the creation and experience of arts and culture, fostering a more vibrant and active cultural landscape across the county. This grant supports projects that directly lead to increased public engagement with arts, science, and history in accessible and appropriate spaces.
Grant Highlights
- Application Opens: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
- Deadline: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with preference to applications received by Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 12:00pm/Noon.
- Events must take place: Between September 1, 2025 – December 31, 2026.
- Funding allowed: Grant amounts up to $10k will be offered based on the applying individual’s venue selection and anticipated audience size (and a historical example to support this estimate).
- One Application Per Cycle Policy: This grant follows a one-application-per-cycle policy. The new policy is designed to support a more equitable review process and ensure fair distribution of funding across our community. We encourage applicants to submit their strongest proposal each cycle.
- Timeline: For those who apply by February 11, applicants will be notified of approval or decline by approximately March 11. All others may expect notification approximately 4 weeks after application receipt.
How do I apply?
All applicants are required to apply through our online application system (Blackbaud). Have questions about your Blackbaud account? Reach out for support at grants@artsandscience.org. The application link below will be added on January 14.
City of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County Strategic Support
The Venue Access grant stemmed from the research and development of the City of Charlotte Arts & Culture Plan, which outlined a vision to sustain and grow the arts and culture sector in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. While inspired by this resource from the city, this grant is aligned with Mecklenburg County’s strategic priorities, particularly those related to fostering a Connected Community and promoting Economic Opportunities. Successful proposals will demonstrate how their projects contribute to the broader county goals, such as:
- Fostering access to physical, social, and informational resources for all community members.
- Building a community where all people can thrive and be well.
- Providing economic opportunities for individuals and businesses.
questions?
We’re here to help! Please email our Community & Artist Support team at grants@artsandscience.org.