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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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 2027- December 2027. Award funds must be spent by June 30, 2027. 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 August 31, 2025)     · Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the application deadline.     · Applicants cannot be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate 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 2025 and 2026 are not eligible to apply for an award in 2027.

 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 

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 11:00 PM, August 31, 2026. 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 the slide deck from the information sessions on the website. All sessions are at 6:00 PM:    Information session dates: June 25, 2026, July 15, 2026,  August 11, 2026.     For a link to any of the information session, email Margaret DeMott at mdemott@durhamarts.org until July 30.  After July 30, 2026 email Amanda Miller at amiller@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 August 31, 2026 at 11:00 PM. 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.

Durham Arts Council is piloting the Creative Space Grants as a new method for making the Durham Arts Council building available to arts nonprofits and individual artists based in Durham County NC. The need for more creative space in Durham has been emphasized through the Cultural Road Map City/County Planning Process. Guidelines or application questions may be adjusted as we learn from the experience of administering these grants.  Creative Space Grants include Creative Hours Grants, Creative Showcase Grants and Creative Residency Grants.

Who May Apply? 

• Arts nonprofits incorporated as a 501(c)(3) and based in Durham County, NC
• individual artists residing in Durham County, NC 
• Arts Administrators organizing an event on behalf of an arts nonprofit 501c(3) based in Durham County, NC.
•  If a project is being produced by an unincorporated group of artists, one artist may apply on behalf of the group.  
• All applicants must be at least 18 years old.   

When is the Application Due?

Applicant can receive only one Creative Residency Grant per Fiscal Year. There are two opportunities to submit an application for FY26-27:

• April 15, 2026,  for activities between July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027
• October 15, 2026, for activities between January 1, 2027-June 30, 2027

What Can I Request? 

• This grant cycle is for use of the DAC building between January 1, 2027 - June 30, 2027.
• This grant supports sustained use of the DAC building (over 40 hours within the fiscal year).  The request may include rehearsals, practice sessions, meetings, and presentations. Note: office space is currently unavailable.
• Individual artists may request up to 80 hours of building use.

What Can I Not Request?

• This grant does not support fundraising events.  Find more information about renting the building here.
• This grant does not support commercial enterprises, except for ticketed performances.  If you are interested in conducting a class or workshop you can submit your proposal to the DAC School here.
• Gallery exhibition in DAC gallery spaces.  For exhibitions, check our website for annual exhibit call details here.
• Use of PSI Theatre.  To request PSI Theatre use the Creative Showcase Grant.

 What Does the Creative Residency Grant cover?

• The grant covers space fees. 
• A cleaning/maintenance fee is charged for each use. The fee for one event attended by one person ranges from $11-$26.  The fee increases as people are added, for example one event attended by 10 people would be between $20-$35.
• For activities taking place outside regular building hours, an hourly security fee will be added at $55/hour.   Regular building hours are 9 AM - 9 PM, Monday-Saturday and 1 - 6 PM, Sunday.  
• There may be other fees depending on the event.

If your application is awarded, you will receive a contract and quote that itemizes all fees and grant credits.  Your grant will appear as a credit against the total cost of your request. 

What if the Dates Requested Change?

• You can apply for use of space even if you do not have specific dates or if there is the possibility that your specific dates change.  If your application is awarded a number of hours to be scheduled in the future, there is no guarantee that the space, date and time you eventually request will be available.  You may request a change once your schedule has been confirmed, but there is no guarantee that your new request will be available.
• A specific reservation is not confirmed until your contract and deposit have been received.

 What Factors Are Considered When Evaluating a Grant Application?

•  Applicant eligibility.   
•  Quality of the arts or arts experience and evidence of sustained commitment to arts programming or artistic practice.  
•  Appropriateness of the activity for the DAC building.
• How the activities help the DAC fulfill its mission of supporting the Durham arts sector and the public's access to public arts activities and performances.  Considerations include:

1. Maintain a relatively consistent level of daytime and nighttime activity to attract participants, audiences, and visitors.
2. Contribute to the stability of facility operations, including taking care of the space and following building procedures to protect the building and all program participants and guests.
3. Build a positive image of the facility through ongoing use. 
4. Innovative projects and projects outside of what the DAC traditionally presents and programs- adding new work to the arts ecosystem.

More details about grant process timeline are available on the Durham Arts Council webpage for Creative Residency Grants.