Arts Grant Application Process

Review all pages under the Annual Grant Guidlines page.

You cannot save the form please prepare your materials before applying. We have example applications for each grant type to help you prepare.

This can be either a 250–500-word response for EACH of the following sections OR one 10-minute video that includes our scoring criteria:

• Artistic & Educational Value
• Access
• Feasibility
• Importance

If your event generates hotel stays, prepare an estimated number of total stays. A portion of our funding comes from taxes generated by hotels, and we may be able to use those funds for your grant.

To distribute grant funding equitably, the application form asks for demographic information. Organizations should submit based on their Board membership. Individuals should self-report.

• Project Budget Form (save as A_budget_ApplicantName.pdf or .xlsx). New in 2026 this is an editable excel file that auto calculates expenses, income, and cash match. 
• 3-5 Work Samples (save as C_worksample_Sample#_ApplicantName.jpg)
• List of Work Samples including number, title, year, size/duration, media (save as D_imagelist_ApplicantName.pdf)
• Optional. Letters of Support or Proof of Partnership that are relevant to the project. Projects requiring permits, permissions or partnerships to succeed must submit proof of partnership letters. (save as B_letters_ApplicantName.pdf)
• Organizations Only: proof of tax exemption for your organization or fiscal agent. Example: IRS Determination Letter or Certificate of Exempt Status. (save as E_Tax_ApplicantName.pdf).
• Organizations Only: List of current board members (save as F_Board_ApplicantName.pdf)
• Organizations Only: Check the WI Department of Financial Institutions portal to confirm your organization is registered using a Madison address. We may make an exception if you are in Madison and your fiscal agent is outside Madison, or if you represent a local chapter of a national organization

Applications are due at 11:59 pm on March 1, 2026.