Arts Education Grants
opens September 15, 2025
The Arts Education Grants program provides targeted funding to nonprofit education departments at mid to large cultural institutions within Mecklenburg County. These education-operating grants support high-quality, impactful arts, science, history, and heritage education programs delivered either within schools or at the organization’s venue, specifically serving school-age children. With a dedicated focus on Title I schools, these grants, funded by Mecklenburg County, seek to expand arts education experiences, eliminate barriers to arts and culture participation for school-age children, enhance student achievement, foster creativity, and contribute to the holistic development of our next generation of leaders. We believe that arts education is fundamental to building a more creative, empathetic, and vibrant future for all students within CMS.
Grant Highlights
- Application Fee: Free
- Application Opens: September 15, 2025
- Deadline: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with preference to applications received by Monday, October 6, 2025 at 12:00pm/Noon.
- Programs must take place: Between October 1, 2025 – May 1, 2026.
- Funding allowed: Grant amounts offered will reflect the scope of the education department’s budget in relation to the full organizational operating budget.
- 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 October 6th, applicants will be notified of approval or decline by November 10th. All others may expect notification approximately 4 weeks after application receipt.
- Due Diligence requirements: must be a 501(c)3 public charity, have a determination letter, and be in good status/current on filed tax returns.
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.
City of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County Strategic Support
The Arts Education grants 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 offering also aligns with Mecklenburg County’s strategic plan priorities, particularly those related to fostering a Connected Community and promoting Economic Opportunities. Successful proposals will demonstrate how their arts education programs contribute to the broader county goals, such as:
- Fostering access to physical, social, and informational resources for all community members, especially youth.
- Building a community where all people can thrive and be well through enhanced educational opportunities.
- Providing economic opportunities for individuals by developing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in young learners.
- Building a Healthy Community where all people can thrive and be well.
- Enhancing Community and Partnership Engagement throughout the County.
questions?
We’re here to help! Please email our Community & Artist Support team at grants@artsandscience.org.