Funding Available – Early Applications Encouraged!
BISMARCK, ND - North Dakota Council on the Arts (NDCA) invites artists, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions across the state to apply for funding through its Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) grant programs. With opportunities ranging from artist development to community arts initiatives, NDCA’s grants help sustain and expand North Dakota’s vibrant creative sector.
Many programs have limited funding, so early submission is highly recommended. Artists and organizations are encouraged to apply for more than one program based on needs and eligibility. Applications are now being accepted, with funding contingent on availability.
Grant Opportunities
APRIL Deadline Grant Opportunities (Apply NOW for projects taking place after July 1, 2025)
- Accessibility Grant (Up to $2,000) – Supports projects that increase arts accessibility for all audiences.
- Artist Growth & Development ($5,000) – Provides support for 2 individual artists’ new creative projects in the disciplines of Literature and Music.
- Arts in Education Collaboration (Up to $6,000) – Strengthens partnerships between K-12 educational institutions and artists.
- Community Arts Access (Up to $4,000) – Expands arts programming in all disciplines in urban and rural North Dakota communities.
- Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeship (Up to $4,500) – Preserves and passes down cultural traditions.*Contact the Program Officer, Troyd Geist at tgeist@nd.gov for assistance with application submissions.
- Institutional Support ($4,000–$11,000) – Provides operational funding for established arts organizations.
Recurring Deadline Grants OPENING SOON! (Applications must be submitted at least six weeks prior to project start date; visit each program's webpage for upcoming FY26 deadlines.)
- Artist in Residence (Up to $2,500) – Supports artist-led residencies in K-12 schools and educational settings.
- Professional Development (Up to $1,000) – Assists artists and arts organizations with arts-related learning opportunities.
- Special Projects (Up to $1,500) – Funds arts initiatives, events, and projects in all disciplines.
“We are honored to support the creativity and cultural vibrancy of North Dakota through these funding opportunities,” said Jessica Christy, NDCA Executive Director. “We encourage artists, organizations, and educators to apply early and take advantage of these resources.”
For general grant information, including questions about the online grant system, visit our Grant Support webpage <www.arts.nd.gov/grantsupport> or call (701) 328-7590. To see an overview, with links to each program, visit the Grants at a Glance webpage <www.arts.nd.gov/grants>.