Equity in the Arts Fund Grant

The Equity in the Arts Fund, supported by The Cleveland Foundation, aims to empower small and medium arts organizations led by and serving BIPOC communities in Cleveland. This initiative seeks to strengthen these organizations by addressing their unique needs and fostering their growth. The fund emphasizes long-term investment for impactful change while remaining responsive to immediate community needs. Organizations with budgets under $300,000 are encouraged to apply for tailored funding that aligns with their specific missions.

Note: The application process begins annually in fall.
Overview
The Cleveland Foundation supports the needs, priorities and opportunities identified by communities and residents in Cuyahoga, Lake and Geauga counties, with grantmaking for long-term impact and grantmaking for immediate impact.
Our Priorities
At the same time, we are committed to strengthening local nonprofits and meeting new and immediate needs in our community as they arise.
To strengthen and build the capacity of small and medium arts and cultural organizations led by and serving Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) in the city of Cleveland.
Funding Levels
We do not have predetermined funding levels. Request the amount that meets the needs of your program and aligns best with your organization’s capacity and other anticipated or received support.

Eligibility

Inquiries are handled through an application process for arts organizations with an operating budget of less than $300,000.Your organization may apply for continued support for a previously funded purpose or project unless we specifically notify you otherwise.

Ineligibility

. We generally do not fund: Individuals  For-profit/commercial organizations  Endowment campaigns, annual appeals or membership drives  Religious organizations for religious purposes  Travel for individuals or groups when travel is the proposal’s primary focus Community services such as police and fire protection, road repair or snow removal Capital projects for hospitals, nursing homes or institutions of higher educationWe cannot fund project expenses that have already been incurred.