The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

The Artist Support Grant The initiative funds professional and artistic development for emerging and established artists to enhance their skills and abilities to create work or to improve their business operations and capacity to bring their work to new audiences. Artists working in visual, craft, performing, traditional, literary, media and interdisciplinary art forms are encouraged to apply. 

 The Artist Support Grants will support projects taking place between January 2026- December 2026. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2026. Awards may range from $500-$1,500.

Who is eligible to apply?
 · Applicants must have lived in Durham, Alamance, Orange or Person Counties, NC, for at least one year before the application deadline. (Since September 2, 2024)
 · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.
 · Applicants cannot be enrolled in a degree program.
 · Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to spending a significant portion of their time on their work as artists.
 · Artists who receive an Artist Support Grant must wait two years to reapply, so artists who received an Artist Support Grant in 2024 and 2025 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2026.

What projects are eligible for funding? Up to 50 percent of the grant amount may be used for artist fees.
 

• Completion/Presentation of a New Work — Cost of resources necessary to complete or present a      significant new work (e.g., purchasing art supplies or equipment (digital may qualify) or space rental)
• Career Promotion — Projects aimed at advertising artists’ work and/or demonstrating their skill level (e.g., websites, portfolios, audio-visual documentation, and online presentation)
• Training — Costs to attend a class or workshop (in-person or virtual) aimed at either enhancing the artist’s skill level or professional development  (for example, a master class or workshop taught by acknowledged authorities in the applicant artist’s medium)
• Travel — Costs of transportation, lodging, and food for training, professional conferences, or research as allowed or possible while adhering to social distancing guidelines

What projects are not eligible for funding?
 

• Scholarships for undergraduate- or graduate-level education
• Projects that support or oppose a particular candidate for public office
• Projects that are exclusive to members of a particular religious faith group
• Projects that do not have a direct effect on the applicant’s growth as an artist (for example., the promotion of other artists’ work)

What is the deadline for submitting applications? Applications are due by 11:59 p.m., September 2, 2025. All portions of the application must be received by this date, Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who decides which artists receive awards? Grant applications and support materials are reviewed by local professional artists in each art form who score and discuss applications before recommending a slate of awards which is approved by the DAC Board of Directors.
Who funds the program? The primary funder of this program is the North Carolina Arts Council a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The program is also funded by the Durham Arts Council, Alamance Arts, the Orange County Arts Commission, and the Person County Arts Council.
Can I get assistance?
 Yes, Durham Arts Council  will offer virtual information sessions to explain the program and answer questions. These sessions are free, but you will need to request a meeting link. Attend the session that is most convenient for you. We expect each session to last no more than 60 minutes. We will also post a recording of one of the sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00pm:
Information session dates: June 26, 2025,   July 22, 2025,  August 13, 2025
For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org.

What criteria are used to evaluate applications?
 

• Demonstrated talent in an art form and overall excellence of the artist’s work
• Clear commitment to a career as a practicing professional artist
• Benefit of the proposed project to the artist’s professional growth
• Feasibility of the proposed project

How much can I request? The maximum amount an applicant can request is $1,500.

Will I be required to provide a final report of my use of the grant? Yes, we require both a financial and narrative report. A link to the report form will be sent to those receiving awards.
 All applications are due by September 2, 2025 at 11:00 p.m. We do not accept late or incomplete applications. The Artist Support Grant is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, Durham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Alamance Arts and Person County Arts Council. Durham Arts Council promotes and encourages excellence in the creation, experience and support of the arts all for the enrichment of our total community. Durham Arts Council does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.

Who may apply:

Durham Arts Council Facility Grants provide short term use of the DAC building to support arts activities. Only non-profits incorporated as a 501(c)3 organization based in Durham County NC or  individual artists living in Durham are eligible to apply. If the project is being produced by an unincorporated group of artists an individual artist may apply on behalf of the group.   Applicants must be over the age of 18.  

What projects are eligible?

 Facility Grants support short term projects in all art forms.  Facility grants are the only avenue for granting use of the PSI Theatre.  Facility Grants will not be given to fundraising events. Facility Grants do not provide support for on-going operations and year round activities such as rehearsals, meetings and on-going programs.  For year round requests, apply to the Season Grant Program unless you are requesting use of the PSI Theatre.  Facility grants cannot be used to request gallery space for exhibits in the building. To apply for an exhibit you must participate in the annual Call for Artists. Contact cscott@durhamarts.org or call 919-560-2719 for information about the Call for Artists. 

What may I ask for?

 Durham Arts Council manages a 52,000 sq. ft. public, community arts center that contains spaces for dance, theater and music rehearsals, meetings, workshops and performances. A Facility Grant may be used to request use of the facility with a total non-profit rental value of up to $1200 per fiscal year. Request value is calculated at the nonprofit arts & cultural rate rate posted on the DAC website: http://www.durhamarts.org/pdf/facility/Event%20Room%20Rates%20and%20Fees.pdf

Applicants will only be granted one facility grant per fiscal year (July 1 -June 30). Facility Grants are for rent only and do not include technical, maintenance or security fees incurred by the recipient. All Facility Grants require a User Fee payment by the recipient (See below in Item #2).  If you are awarded a grant you will receive a contract itemizing fees and grant credits, at which time you will be able to adjust your project if necessary.

NOTE: You cannot apply for space using a Facility Grant if you have already made the same request using a Durham Arts Council Season Grant. 

Please contact facility staff before or  during your application process to check availability of the building  and to calculate any additional facility costs. Availability of facility  space is not guaranteed until an event contract has been signed with  the facilities department.

Contact: dacfacilities@durhamarts.org or (919)560-2787

What are the criteria by which Durham Arts Council (DAC) evaluates applications? 

Criteria for evaluating applications are: Quality of Art or Arts Experience, Project Implementation and Impact of the Grant on the quality of the project. Facility Grants are dependent on scheduling restrictions and event compatibility. 

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND AS YOU CONSIDER APPLYING FOR THIS GRANT: 

1. You may not apply if you have any outstanding bills or late grant reports due to DAC. 

2. If you are requesting use of the Peoples Security Insurance Theatre, please note that if you are approved for this grant we require payment of a non-refundable, non-transferable User Fee of $70 per performance day in the theatre. If you are applying to use any non performance space at DAC, we require payment of a non-refundable, non-transferable User Fee of $10 for each 4 hour use. This will be due with your signed contract. If you cancel your performance, rehearsal or meeting you lose this deposit. If using the Theatre, we will also require you to meet with the DAC Technical Director at least two weeks prior to event. 

3. Any time you occupy or enter Peoples Security Insurance Theatre, whether for performance, load-in, load-out, rehearsal or other reasons, DAC’s Technical Director must be present. Overtime rates may apply if your use requires more than 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week of the technician’s time. This grant does not cover technician fees.  See the DAC website for current rates: https://durhamarts.org/facility/

4. Normal Durham Arts Council building activity hours are 9:00 AM-9:00 PM, Monday through Saturday and 1:00-6:00 PM on Sunday. Any access to the building before or after these hours must be requested ahead of time and will result in extra charges to you. 

5. Although use of tables, chairs and music stands can be included as part of the grant request, the recipient is responsible for setting them up and taking them down. 

6. Although we can usually provide a piano, it is provided with tuning “as is”. If you will require tuning beyond this level, DAC will schedule the tuning and bill you. 

7. Durham Arts Council reserves the right to require a security deposit depending on the type of activity and/or applicant’s previous credit history or lack of history. If you need further information about Durham Arts Council or have questions about this grant, contact the Office of Artist Services at 919-560-2720 or 560-2719. DAC reserves the right to request more information before making a decision about the award. You will generally receive notification in 6-8 weeks after due date. Please note that fees quoted in this document are current as of June 2016 and are subject to change without notice.

Thank you for reapplying to the Durham Arts Council's CAPS Program! The application deadline is Monday, July 25, 2025. 

 
PLEASE READ THE PREVIOUS CAPS TEACHING ARTIST HANDBOOK HERE: 

LOGGING IN TO SUBMITTABLE: If you applied to CAPS in 2023, you should have a Submittable account (see lost password retrieval below). If you do not have a Submittable account, please create an account with Submittable so that you complete an application. Create an account below. 

LOST PASSWORD:  To retreive forgotten login information, click 'forgot password' and follow the prompts so that login details can be emailed to you. 

SAVE AND RETURN TO APPLICATION: Use the save draft button located at the end of the application to save and return to your application later. 

Thank you for reapplying to the Durham Arts Council's CAPS Program! The application deadline is Monday, July 25, 2025. 

 
PLEASE READ THE PREVIOUS CAPS TEACHING ARTIST HANDBOOK HERE: 

LOGGING IN TO SUBMITTABLE: If you applied to CAPS in 2023, you should have a Submittable account (see lost password retrieval below). If you do not have a Submittable account, please create an account with Submittable so that you complete an application. Create an account below. 

LOST PASSWORD:  To retreive forgotten login information, click 'forgot password' and follow the prompts so that login details can be emailed to you. 

SAVE AND RETURN TO APPLICATION: Use the save draft button located at the end of the application to save and return to your application later. 

Thank you for applying to the Durham Arts Council's CAPS Program!

USING SUBMITTABLE & LOGGING IN: Please create an account with Submittable so that you can save and return to your application. Create an account below.
 

IMPORTANT APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: Before proceeding and to aid you in completing the online application, please read the Application Guidelines and print the Application Checklist  located at the following link: https://durhamartscouncilcaps.com/artists/become-a-caps-artist/
 

Doing so will allow you to review and prepare for application content,  questions, and uploads required to complete the online application.

TIP: Before completing the online application, type answers to description/narrative questions in a word document and copy/paste the answers into the corresponding question fields in the online application.
 

Additionally, prepare and save your lesson plans so  that they can be uploaded when prompted by the online application. These  steps will save you time, allow you to calculate the word count, and  provide you with a copy of your answers in the event of an application  error (i.e. answers disappear or answers are not saved).

SAVE APPLICATION REGULARLY AS YOU ARE WORKING ON IT. The save draft button is at the end of the application.